Intraosseous territory of the facial artery in the maxilla and anterior mandible: implications for allotransplantation

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this anatomical study was to define the intraosseous vascular territory of the facial artery. The clinical issue is whether ipsilateral facial artery anastomosis will guarantee blood supply to the ipsi- and contralateral mandibular symphyses and maxillae in allotransplantation.

Material and methods: Of 10 human cadaveric heads, the left facial artery was injected with a positive contrast agent. The maxillae and mandibular symphyses were investigated with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Results: Each ipsilateral maxilla and mandibular bone segment showed contrast medium in the intraosseous vessels. In 50% of cases, this was also the case on the contralateral side of the maxilla and anterior mandible.

Conclusions: The maxillae and the mandibular symphyses receive ipsilateral blood supply from the facial artery and, in 50% of cases, also from the contralateral facial artery. Internal maxillary artery anastomosis is not required for a vascularized maxillary bone flap. Additionally, involvement of the submental artery is not needed for a mandibular symphyseal bone flap.