ĐẶC ĐIỂM GIẢI PHẪU ĐỘNG MẠCH MẶT TRÊN HÌNH ẢNH CHỤP CẮT LỚP VI TÍNH MẠCH MÁU VÙNG HÀM MẶT

Abstract

Background: The facial artery is a principal branch of the external carotid artery, supplying most of the superficial facial structures. Its highly variable branching patterns and course present challenges in clinical practice. Comprehensive anatomical understanding is critical for ensuring the safety of procedures such as filler injections, reconstructive flaps, and complex maxillofacial surgeries. Methods: We performed a descriptive cross-sectional study of 35 patients (70 facial arteries) who underwent computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the maxillofacial region at Cho Ray Hospital. Results: The facial artery originated directly from the external carotid artery in 80% of cases and from the linguofacial trunk in 20%. The mean diameters at the origin and at the inferior mandibular border were 2,82 mm and 1,99 mm, respectively, with significantly larger values observed in males (p<0,05). Each artery gave 1–5 branches; the inferior labial (91,4%) and superior labial (74,3%) arteries were most frequently identified. The angular artery was the least common branch (14,3%), and a variant form with a dominant side branch was present in 2,9% of cases. Five terminal branching patterns were classified, with type I (41,4%) and type II (42,9%) predominating. A hypoplastic variant was detected in one case (1,4%). Relative to the nasolabial fold, the artery most commonly coursed medially (64,3%). The mean distance from the artery to the ipsilateral mandibular angle was 25,6 mm, with significant sex-related differences (p<0,05). Conclusion: The facial artery demonstrates considerable variation in its origin, branching, and course. These results provide clinically relevant anatomical data to enhance the safety and efficacy of facial interventions in the Vietnamese population.