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INTRODUCTION It is critical to preserve adequate vascularization in midface allotransplantation, the major complication of which is inadequate blood supply in palate area supplying mainly by internal maxillary artery. Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore a modified Le Fort II approach entailing midface vascularization enhancement. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ten cadaveric heads were used in mock surgery. A conventional approach was used on seven cadaveric heads to harvest external carotid artery-facial artery-internal maxillary artery axis. On the remaining three cadaveric heads, modified Le Fort II approach was applied where the internal maxillary artery was harvested after cutting off zygomatic arches and rami of the mandible. RESULTS The conventional approach had difficulty harvesting internal maxillary artery, which left the facial artery the only blood supply to midface. Modified Le Fort II approach with Computerized surgical planning (CSP) assisted, on the other hand, could completely unveil and harvest intact internal maxillary artery after osteotomy of mandibular ramus. CONCLUSION The modified Le Fort II approach with CSP and ultrasonic bone cutter assisted can maximally preserve internal maxillary system with ease. This approach optimizes midface allotransplantation in clinical practice in future.

Background: Commonly, arterial anatomic variants are reported as single entities. However, different such variants can occur in a single patient. Materials and methods: During a retrospective study of computed tomography angiograms of 52 adult patients, two cases were found with unilateral maxillofacial trunks. In each case different other anatomic variants were documented. Results: The maxillofacial trunk in the first case was associated with bilateral posterior kinks of the internal carotid artery which passed beyond the transverse processes of the atlas vertebra and indented and displaced the internal jugular veins. Common carotid origins of the superior thyroid arteries were found, as well as a high origin of the contralateral facial artery. In the second case a plethora of variants were associated with a unilateral maxillofacial trunk: (1) direct occipital-vertebral arterial anastomosis; (2) ipsilateral atresia of the distal vertebral artery and of the A1 segment of the anterior cerebral artery; (3) bilateral atresia of posterior communicating arteries; (4) linguofacial and labiomental trunks; (5) terminal trifurcation of the external carotid artery. Conclusions: The arterial anatomical variants of the head and neck should be carefully documented prior to specific surgical and interventional procedures, as well as for understanding the compensatory anatomical pathways of circulatory insufficiencies.

Background and Overview Monckeberg arteriosclerosis is a disease of unknown etiology characterized by dystrophic calcifications within the tunica media of small- and medium-sized arteries, leading to reduced arterial compliance. The authors report a case discovered incidentally on dental radiographs. Case Description A 78-year-old man with a complex medical history was seen for routine oral health care. Panoramic and bite-wing radiographs revealed a tortuous, linear calcification in the area of the left mandibular first molar anterior to the angle of the mandible and suggestive of a calcified facial artery. Conclusions and Practical Implications Medical radiologists have used the presence of arterial calcifications to determine the severity and prognosis of such diseases as primary hyperparathyroidism, secondary hyperparathyroidism, coronary artery disease, and diabetes. The presence of Monckeberg arteriosclerosis on dental radiographs can help oral health care professionals identify patients with undiagnosed systemic disease.

Background A consensus on facial artery anatomy has not been established due to the discrepancies in previous studies. Objectives The authors sought to assess the branches, course, and location of the facial artery in Asians by utilizing computed tomographic angiography. Methods The computed tomographic angiography images of 300 facial arteries from 150 Asian patients were evaluated. The FA was classified as follows: type 1, facial artery terminates superior labial or inferior labial artery; type 2, facial artery terminates lateral nasal or inferior alar artery; type 3, facial artery terminates medial canthal artery; or type 4, facial artery is divided into duplex branches with dominant medial canthal artery laterally. The relationship between nasolabial fold and FA was evaluated, and the distances from anatomical landmarks to FA were measured to position the course. Results Seventy (23.3%), 163 (54.3%), 49 (16.3%), and the other 18 arteries (6.0%) were classified as type 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. A total 72.3% of facial arteries were located medially to the nasolabial fold, and only 14.7% of arteries were lateral to the nasolabial fold. The vertical distance between the facial artery and the inner canthus or the midpoint of the inferior orbital rim decreased from type 1 to type 4 facial artery (P < 0.0001). The 4 types did not significantly differ in distance between the mandibular angle (P = 0.1226) or oral commissure (P = 0.1030) and the facial artery at inferior of mandible. Conclusions Detailed findings of the facial artery will provide a valuable reference for filler injection in cosmetic procedures and flap design in reconstructive surgery.

The reconstruction of anterior skull base defects after carcinologic surgery is challenging. Large defects can require the use of autologous free tissue transfer. Currently, most reconstructions use soft-tissue flaps. We describe the use of an osteocutaneous radial forearm free flap to reconstruct a large defect secondary to a malignant paraganglioma extending into the anterior cranial fossa and both orbits. The surgical resection required endonasal and transcranial approaches. We reconstructed the defect with a free osteocutaneous radial forearm flap. We laid the bone flap across the defect, resting on the orbital roof on each side, and sutured the soft component to the edge of the dura. The pedicle was funnelled from the craniotomy to a prepared cervicotomy and the micro-anastomoses were performed onto the facial artery and two satellite veins. Potential indications and major drawbacks of this technique are briefly discussed. Osteocutaneous radial forearm free flaps can be a valuable reconstructive option for patients with a large defect of the anterior skull base, needing both rigid support and a watertight closure.

Partial maxillectomy for maxillary sinus cancer treatment requires soft tissue reconstruction with enough bulk to occupy the large-volume defect. Deep inferior epigastric artery-based flaps and subscapular artery-based flaps are commonly used, but necessitate invasive muscle dissection or position change and a large recipient vessel. The aim of this report was to present a case of partial maxillectomy defect successfully reconstructed with a superficial circumflex iliac artery (SCIA) perforator (SCIP) flap, to address these drawbacks. A 67-year-old female underwent partial maxillectomy for maxillary sinus cancer. The defects included the medial and the caudal aspects of the maxillary sinus with unilateral palate loss. A double-paddle SCIP flap (19 × 9 cm and 10 × 6 cm) was elevated in a free-style manner based on the superficial branches of the SICA. The SCIP and its concomitant vein were anastomosed to a facial artery perforator and the angular vein with supermicrosurgical perforator-to-perforator anastomosis. Two skin paddles were utilized to reconstruct the defects of the nasal wall and the oral aspects of the palate. Postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient could resume normal oral diet 5 days after surgery. Three years after surgery, there was no cancer recurrence or any postoperative complication, and the patient was satisfied with normal speech and diet, and with concealable donor and recipient scars. Double-paddle SCIP flap transfer may be an option for reconstruction of a partial maxillectomy defect.

Organized hematoma (OH) is benign tumor in the maxillary sinus. The standard treatment for OH is complete surgical resection, however massive bleeding can occur during the procedure, albeit rarely. Some reports have suggested preoperative embolization is useful for reducing the volume of intraoperative bleeding. We report 3 cases of OH in the maxillary performed preoperative embolization. We identified the feeding arteries by angiography or IVR-CT, and we embolized them using Gelatin sponge particles. The embolized artery was the maxillary artery or both the maxillary and the facial artery. There were no major complications as a result of embolization. The mean fluoroscopy time was 35.8 minutes, and the mean fluoroscopy dose was 329.3 mGy. Tumor resection was performed the next day after arterial embolization. The mean bleeding volume for surgery was 383.3 ml, and the mean operative time was 194 minutes. No recurrence was observed in any of the cases over a 4-year follow-up period. We considered that it is possible that preoperative artery embolization is useful for decreasing intraoperative bleeding volume. Although the methods and usefulness of embolization await future reports, it is a technique that should be considered preoperatively because of its potential to prevent massive bleeding.

Reconstruction after maxillofacial trauma is extremely challenging. During the past several decades, the chimeric fibular-free flap has emerged as a leading reconstructive option for head and neck compound defects. This report describes a unique case of total mandibular reconstruction using a double-paddle osteocutaneous fibular free flap after facial traumatic injury. A 45-year-old man presented a severe maxillofacial trauma with complete mandibular avulsion. The shortest segment of a 24-cm fibular flap was used to reconstruct the symphysis while the longest segments were placed to rebuild the mandibular body. Microvascular anastomoses were performed with the external jugular vein and facial artery. The distal skin island (10 × 5 cm) was sutured to cover the endo-oral defect while the proximal one (12 × 6 cm) to restore the external tissues continuity of the facial lower third. The postoperative course was uneventful. One year after flap reconstruction, a first commissuroplasty was performed. After 3 months, secondary commissuroplasty was performed with an Estlander flap to rebuild the right lower lip. At latest follow-up, 60 months postoperatively, the patient was able to tolerate soft diet with maximal mouth opening of more than 4 cm; no impairment to mastication, deglutition, or phonation was observed. Speech was normal and the aesthetic outcome was judged good. Double-paddle fibular free flap allows reconstruction of extremely challenging defects, such in case of complete mandibular avulsion. The proximal perforator can provide extended soft-tissue coverage and greater volume than traditional osteocutaneous flaps, avoiding two flaps simultaneous harvest.

Recipient vessel selection in head and neck reconstruction is based on multiple factors, including defect size and location, patient history, and vessel location, diameter, and length. The authors present a comparison of proximal and distal anastomotic sites of the facial artery. A chart review of head and neck reconstructions using the facial artery as a recipient vessel over a 7-year period was conducted. The anastomosis site was identified as distal (at the inferior mandible border) or proximal (at the origin of the artery). The distal site was utilized for both defects of the midface/ scalp and of the mandible/neck, while the proximal site was exclusively used for mandible/neck defects. The following complications were included in the analysis: facial nerve injury, surgical site infection, thrombosis, flap congestion, flap loss, hardware failure, malunion/nonunion, osteomyelitis, sinus/fistula, hematoma, seroma, reoperation, and 90-day mortality. Fifty-four free tissue transfers were performed. The overall complication rate (including major and minor complications) was 53.7%. Anastomosis level did not have a significant impact on complication rate. In addition, there were no significant differences in complication rates for the distal anastomosis site when stratified by defect location. However, obese patients were more likely to have a complication than nonobese patients. This conclusion may reassure surgeons that factors related to anastomosis level, such as vessel diameter and proximity to the zone of injury, have less impact on outcomes than factors like obesity, which may inform preoperative planning, intraoperative decision-making, and postoperative monitoring.

Since its first introduction by Martin and colleagues (1993) and with further revisions by Sterne et al (1996), the submental artery flap (SMAF) has proven to be an effective, reliable, safe, and valuable option in head, neck, and facial reconstructive surgeries. The SMAF utilizes a long pedicle based on the submental artery, a branch of the facial artery, which provides good reach to the lower two-thirds of the face with excellent cosmetic outcomes. It also maintains a good skin color match for facial and cervical defects with a mostly hidden donor site scar (in the majority of cases the donor site can be primarily closed after raising the flap). Although the use of the SMAF is associated with high patient and surgeon satisfaction along with low rates of complications, disadvantages including flap thickness and the hair-bearing nature of the submental skin, which may be problematic for coverage of orofacial defects, especially in male patients. Although it has been almost 30 years since its introduction, and the SMAF has been successfully used in over 500 reported cases of pediatric and adult patients, a comprehensive review of the different aspects of the SMAF is lacking in the medical literature.

Introducción: La maxilectomía es la intervención quirúrgica recomendada para la exéresis de neoplasias faciales, esta técnica comprende la resección de los maxilares y de estructuras anatómicas adyacentes, y conlleva diferentes grados de alteración funcional. La reconstrucción de defectos medio faciales representa un gran desafío, se utilizan diferentes técnicas desde el uso de prótesis obturadoras, colgajos locales, hasta colgajos libres, con la finalidad de la mayor recuperación de funciones sofisticadas como el habla, la deglución y la ventilación en vía área superior. Reporte de caso: Paciente hombre de 89 años de edad con 4 meses de evolución de masa tumoral de crecimiento progresivo y constante en la mitad del paladar superior y se extiende tomando el maxilar superior derecho. Al examen físico se observa la cavidad con deficiente cuidado de las piezas dentales y una masa tumoral de más de 15 cm de diámetro que deforma la cavidad oral. Evolución: Se realizó tumorectomía y vaciamiento ganglionar con preservación de nervio espinal, hipogloso, lingual, musculo esternocleidomastoideo, vena yugular interna, vena y arteria facial. Se realizó una reconstrucción de neopaladar con colgajo nasogeniano. La patología definitiva recibida en días posteriores reportó un carcinoma escamo celular pobremente diferenciado de estirpe epitelial con borde quirúrgico positivo para el tumor. Dentro del período postoperatorio el paciente presentó una neumonía asociada a los cuidados de la salud, acompañada con déficit neurológico, el cuadro involucionó hasta sepsis de origen pulmonar y fallece 21 días posteriores a la cirugía. Conclusiones: El crecimiento acelerado de una masa del maxilar en este paciente se asoció con la presencia de un carcinoma escamo celular pobremente diferenciado.

OBJECTIVES Mid and upper face free flaps frequently are associated with challenges due to pedicle length. We sought to evaluate the frequency at which alternative pedicle maneuvers were required for these reconstructions and determine if there was any association with flap survival or postoperative complications. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective review at three tertiary care institutions. METHODS Database review. RESULTS Free flap reconstruction of the upper and midface was performed in 295 patients (108 bony, 187 soft tissue). In 82% of cases, the vessels reached the ipsilateral neck for anastomosis to traditional target vessels. Arterial grafts were required in 2% of reconstructions (4% bony and 1% soft tissue). Venous grafting was required in 7% of reconstructions (21% fibula, 16% scapula, and 3% soft tissue) and was associated with an increase in flap failure rate (19% vs 3%, P = .003). The most common recipient artery for revascularization was the cervical facial artery (78%). Alternate recipient vessels were selected in 13% of cases, including the superficial temporal vessels (7%), distal facial branches through a separate facial incision (4%), and angular vessels (2%). Vein grafting was associated with a higher flap failure rate. Alternative maneuvers did not affect need for intraoperative pedicle revision or complications. CONCLUSIONS In upper and midface reconstruction, vascular grafting, targeting more distal branches of the facial system, or additional maneuvers to optimize pedicle orientation is often required to secure revascularization. Vein grafting is associated with a higher free flap failure rate. Scapular border flaps often require vascular grafting or atypical anastomotic locations. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3-Non randomized cohort study 4 Laryngoscope, 131:2465-2470, 2021.

Masseter injections for cosmetic or pathological reasons are increasingly common, as are filler injections using dual or multiplane techniques in the lateral facial regions or for jawline contouring. The occurrence of blindness following these procedures often remains unexplained. This study aimed to determine the anatomical explanation for this debilitating complication by investigating the transverse facial artery and its relation to the masseter. For this purpose, we dissected 35 cheek specimens with latex injections and 10 specimens without latex. The external carotid artery was dissected up to its bifurcation into the maxillary and superficial temporal arteries. Results showed that the transverse facial artery arose from the superficial temporal or external carotid artery that runs between the zygomatic arch and the parotid duct. Three types of transverse facial arteries were observed: type I: a short artery that did not extend beyond the masseter muscle; type II: a transverse artery that ran to the nasolabial fold and anastomosed to the facial artery; and type III: a sizable transverse artery that substituted the hypoplastic facial artery, continued as the angular artery, and then anastomosed to the dorsal nasal artery. Knowledge of these three types of transverse facial arteries is a prerequisite to study the vascular territory. Type III provides an explanation for the occurrence of blindness after lateral face injections. We consequently define a line that runs from the tragus to the outer quarter of the upper lip as the risk area, while the safe zone is located on either side of this line.

Introduction The first signs of face aging appear in the midface, so procedures such as botulinum toxin and filler injections are performed there. However, no guidelines based on clinical anatomy have been published describing the muscular and vascular components in vivo. The aim of this research is to describe the depths of the midface muscles and the locations of vessels using US imaging. Materials and methods US was applied at 12 landmarks on the midface in 88 volunteers (49 males and 39 females; 19-36 years) to detect sex differences in the depths of muscles and the locations of the vessels. Results The depths of the orbicularis oculi (OOc), levator labii superioris alaeque nasi (LLSAN), and zygomaticus minor (Zmi) differed significantly with sex at P7 (p=0.001) and P8 (p=0.017), P1 (p=0.028), and P4 (p=0.035), respectively. The facial artery, facial vein, angular artery, angular vein, and perforator vessels were found at P9, P2 and P10, P1, P1 and P5, and P8, P11 and P12, respectively. Conclusions The findings indicate that the depths of the OOc, LLSAN, Zmi muscles differ between the sexes and that the vessels appear at specific landmarks. This information could help in developing anatomical guidelines for several procedures.

Submental flap (SF) is a reconstructive technique that can be utilised for reconstruction of medium to large oral cavity defects, head and neck cancer, and pharyngocutaneous fistula. The submental artery island flap is pedicled on the submental artery and veins. The vascular pedicle has a length of up to 8cm. If it is further dissected to its origin from the facial artery, the pedicle can be lengthened by an additional 1–2cm to reach the lateral canthus and zygomatic arch. The use of SF for the reconstruction of head and neck defects has re-emerged over the past decade due to various reasons. We present a series of four case reports of head and neck cancers including a basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and Merkel tumour, where the SF technique was used to successfully reconstruct the resultant facial defect. The advantages and disadvantages of the SF are discussed with a brief literature review.

BACKGROUND When performing filler injection procedures to the nasojugal groove, there is the risk of iatrogenic damage to the detoured facial artery. OBJECTIVE To determine the 3-dimensional location of the detoured facial artery. MATERIALS AND METHODS The branches of the facial arteries from 118 cadaveric hemifaces were scanned using computed tomography and reconstructed using the Mimics software program. RESULTS Detoured facial arteries were found in 47 of the 118 hemifaces (39.8%). Two main arterial patterns were identified: in Type I (29 of 47 cases), there were both detoured and nasolabial trunks where the facial artery originated, whereas in Type II (18 of 47 cases), there was only a detoured trunk. The detoured trunk originated 32.0 ± 5.3 mm from the midsagittal line, 5.0 ± 2.8 mm from the occlusion plane, and 5.9 ± 3.5 mm below the skin layer; the inflection of the detoured trunk was located 30.0 ± 5.6 mm laterally, 26.2 ± 4.4 mm superiorly, and 5.7 ± 2.6 mm deep. The meeting point with the inferior orbital rim plane was located 17.1 ± 3.4 mm laterally, 43.4 ± 3.1 mm superiorly, and 2.8 ± 1.7 mm deep. CONCLUSION The 3-dimensional location of the detoured facial artery as reported here will help clinicians to avoid iatrogenic damage when they are performing filler injection procedures.

Background Despite many options for upper lip reconstruction, each method's advantages and disadvantages are unclear. Objective To summarize complications and functional and aesthetic outcomes of localized skin flaps for oncological reconstruction of the upper cutaneous lip (PROSPERO CRD42020157244). Methods The search was conducted in Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, and CENTRAL on December 14, 2019. Two reviewers screened 2,958 results for eligibility. Bias assessment was conducted using ROBINS-I criteria. Results Our search identified 12 studies reporting outcomes of V-Y advancement, ergotrid, rotation, Karapandzic, alar crescent, and propeller facial artery perforator flaps. Flap complications (infection, hemorrhage/hematoma, wound dehiscence, and flap necrosis) ranged from 0% to 7.69%. Functional outcomes (salivary continence, microstomia, and paresthesia) were poorest for Karapandzic flaps. Aesthetic outcomes, when reported, stated satisfaction rates greater than 90%. V-Y advancement flaps reported the highest rates of poor scarring (0%-20%) and need for revision surgery (0%-46.7%). Conclusion Our results provide dermatologic surgeons an overview of upper cutaneous lip flap outcomes reported in the literature. In general, we noted high patient satisfaction rates and low complication rates. Additional research into outcomes of other commonly used flaps is needed. Standardization of reported outcomes could allow further comparison across different flaps or across studies of the same flap.

Pseudoaneurysm is a rare vascular complication of trauma, causing an incomplete tear of the vessel wall. We present a clinical case report arising from the distal branch of facial artery in an infant. Facial artery pseudoaneurysm is a rare complication of facial trauma and can easily be misdiagnosed especially in the paediatric age group. Prompt investigation and diagnosis with timely and apt intervention is the key to the successful management of facial artery pseudoaneurysm.

Mucoceles originating in submandibular gland (SMG) which are extravasation type are extremely rare. Because the extraoral approach with potential risks of facial nerve injury and scar formation is commonly performed, we report endoscopically-assisted intraoral removal of submandibular gland mucocele as minimally invasive surgery. A 28-year-old female was referred to our department with an eight-week history of left submandibular painless swelling. Radiological diagnosis was not plunging ranula but SMG mucocele. The patient underwent endoscopically-assisted intraoral removal of SMG under general anesthesia as minimally invasive surgery. A mucosal incision on the left oral floor was made. After soft tissues surrounding the SMG were dissected bluntly, the mucocele and SMG were exposed more prominently by digital pressure applied beneath the lower border of the mandible by an assistant. The SMG was gripped with forceps after aspiration of mucocele, and pulled up through the incision by gland dissection. Because the facial artery penetrated the SMG, the facial artery was ligated and cut. The SMG with mucocele was removed completely in intraoral approach. Although there was no continuity with SMG and sublingual gland (SLG), the SLG was also removed preventively. The pathological diagnosis was SMG mucocele. Although lingual nerve paresthesia occurred postoperatively, the paresthesia was recovered completely 3 weeks after surgery. There was no recurrence 2.5 years after surgery. Because intraoral removal of SMG can be performed without cervical scar and facial nerve injury, this intraoral approach with endoscopic assistance can be an alternative to transcervical approach.

Background Postoperative hemorrhage is a potential complication of tonsillectomy, and early diagnosis and adequate management are mandatory to prevent hemorrhagic shock. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of transcatheter embolization of recurrent post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage by using N-butyl 2-cyanoacrylate. Results We performed a retrospective analysis of the medical records, imaging findings, technical details, and clinical outcome of eight patients with delayed post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage who underwent endovascular embolization. All patients were followed up; technical and clinical successes of treatment were evaluated. All patients had arterial pseudoaneurysm as a source of bleeding. The injured artery was facial artery in four patients, lingual artery in three patients, and linguofacial trunk in one patient. All lesions were treated by endovascular embolization using NBCA glue. All patients were successfully embolized with no clinical complications. In one patient with pseudoaneurysm at the ostium of the facial artery, after filling the pseudoaneurysm with glue, inadvertently proximal reflux into the adjacent part of the external carotid artery (ECA) occurred leading to its occlusion with no related immediate or delayed complication. Conclusion Endovascular embolization is an effective and almost safe procedure in the management of recurrent post-tonsillectomy bleeding. In such cases, we can use NBCA glue with certain precautions as an effective appropriate embolizing agent.

Local anesthesia techniques are widely used in dentistry because of their numerous advantages, including safety. Several articles have been published on local and systemic complications stemming from the use of local anesthesia, one of which is accidental intravascular injection, usually reported during inferior alveolar nerve blocks. A 58-year-old man presented to the dental office for extraction of the lower left first molar. During delivery of a supplemental injection in the buccal vestibular mucosa to anesthetize the buccal nerve, an accidental intra-arterial injection to the facial artery occurred, causing sudden sharp pain and immediate pallor along the course of the facial artery. The pallor resolved in approximately 20 minutes. Buccal infiltration was repeated successfully, and the tooth was extracted uneventfully. This case appears to be the first report in the literature to describe the accidental intravascular injection of local anesthetic involving the facial artery and discuss its clinical implications.

Purpose The use of a vascularized free fibula graft (FFF) for the reconstruction of a mandible in a child with a mandibular tumor is infrequent. The purpose of this study is to report our protocol for resection of mandibular jaw tumors and immediate reconstruction using FFF in pediatric patients. Methods This was a retrospective case series of children with a mandibular tumor, which was resected and immediately reconstructed with FFF. All patients were treated via the same staged protocol: 1) presurgical digital planning, 2) surgical intervention (resection and immediate reconstruction), 3) postoperative care in the pediatric intensive unit, and 4) prosthodontic dental rehabilitation. Outcomes were complications and recurrence. Medical records were reviewed to document demographic information, tumor details, surgical interventions, postoperative course, and prosthodontic rehabilitation. Results Fifteen patients (10 males, average age of 13.7 years) met inclusion criteria. Ten patients had mandibular ameloblastoma. All patients were treated by a dedicated pediatric team and followed the same protocol. The average tumor size was 4.87 × 3.22 × 2.03 cm. Most fibulas (n = 12) had one osteotomy to reestablish mandibular continuity and create appropriate contour. The most common microvascular anastomosis was with a facial artery (n = 13) and the external jugular vein (n = 9). At an average follow-up of 15.5 months, there were only 3 minor donor site complications. Eight implants were placed without complications. No tumors recurred. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that pediatric mandibular tumors can be successfully treated using a specific protocol involving resection and immediate reconstruction using FFF with minimal complications and without recurrence.

Eye socket contracture is a well-known late complication of enucleation surgery, and the additional insult of radiotherapy at an early age causes even further fibrosis and scarring of the socket. Management of the contracted socket is challenging, and several methods have been proposed. We report a case of eye socket contracture after enucleation and radiotherapy in which multiple reconstructive procedures failed. The recurrent contracture caused difficulty in housing and retaining the eye prosthesis. We reconstructed the lower eyelid with a facial artery myomucosal flap and nasolabial flap, and the upper eyelid with a Fricke flap following reconstruction of the orbital rims (supraorbital and infraorbital rims with a calvarial bone graft, and further augmentation of the infraorbital rim with a rib bone graft). Cosmesis post-reconstruction was acceptable and the prosthesis was retained very well.

Background: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic disease of insidious onset predominant in the Asian subcontinent. It is a progressive condition resulting in forced closure of mouth and inability to take solid oral feeds. Having a multifactorial etiology, it is a well-known premalignant condition. Measures such as forcing the mouth open and releasing the fibrotic bands have resulted in aggravated fibrosis and disability. Aim: The aim was to evaluate the outcomes of bilateral inferiorly based nasolabial flaps in the management of severe trismus in patients with submucous fibrosis. Materials and Methods: The study included patients with progressive trismus presenting to the department of plastic surgery who underwent release and cover with nasolabial flap during the period from August 2014 to July 2018 (4 years). A total of eight patients were studied for their offending agents, the progression of the disease, the preoperative and postflap transfer, and inter-incisal distance, and this was followed up for a period of 1 year. Patients were studied for their improvement in mouth opening, flap status, and donor-site scar acceptability. Results: A total of eight patients of submucous fibrosis with severe trismus were treated with nasolabial flaps and followed for an average of 1 year from 2014 to 2018. The mean preoperative inter-incisal opening of 2 mm was treated by the bilateral release of mucosal fibrous bands and covered with tunneled facial artery-based nasolabial flaps. All patients received postoperative mouth-opening physiotherapy. Their inter-incisal opening improved from a mean of 2 mm to a mean of 30.8 mm. Conclusion: Bilateral pedicled nasolabial flaps can be successfully used for long-term relief of severe trismus in OSMF. Our study showed easy elevation of bilateral flaps, adequate postoperative mouth opening, with no recurrence of disease, and no flap contracture. This small-sized flap gives good coverage of the buccal mucosa without flap redundancy and cosmetically acceptable donor site.

PURPOSE: Pseudoaneurysms are one of the rare complications that can be encountered after the orthognathic surgery. We are presenting a new case of pseudoaneurysm of bilateral sphenopalatine artery after Bijaw Surgery in a young male and a systematic review of all the cases in the literature emphasizing on signs and symptoms, epistaxis or bleeding episodes and treatment outcomes. METHODS: A systematic research strategy was planned according to the PRISMA guidelines, and articles were taken from 1986 to September, 2019. A total of 899 articles were selected for screening, out of which only 26 articles met our inclusion and exclusion criteria. These were included in the study for qualitative analysis. RESULTS: Most PAs were associated with Lefort I osteotomy (69.7%), followed by sagittal split osteotomy (24.24%). Average intraoperative blood was 635 ml. Maximum number of episodes of epistaxis/swelling or bleeding occurred in second week. Mean bleeding episodes were 2.58 ± 0.996. The arteries commonly affected were internal maxillary artery (42%), sphenopalatine artery (27.27%), facial artery (15.15%), descending palatine artery (12.12%), internal carotid artery (9.09%) and infraorbital artery (3.03%). Embolization was treatment of choice in 81.81% cases. CONCLUSION: If a patient has recurrent epistaxis or swelling after orthognathic surgery, it is advisable to go for diagnostic imaging like angiography without any delay. In recent times, advanced techniques and expertise are readily available for early diagnosis and management of pseudoaneurysm.

Genital lymphedema is a rare condition in males that can lead to difficulty in voiding, sexual function, hygiene, and mobility. Only several methods of treatment have been developed and studied, primarily focusing on restoring patency of diseased lymph channels or resection of affected tissue. We are the first to describe the surgical technique and our experience of using free submental and submandibular arterio-venous vascularized lymph node transfer specifically for the treatment of scrotal edema. We report on two patients who have undergone selective neck dissection of submental and submandibular lymph nodes based off the facial artery and vein. These vascularized lymph nodes were then transferred to the groin, with anastomosis to the deep inferior epigastric perforator artery and vein. The first patient, a 63 year old had initial pretreatment measurement of the anal verge to base of penis was 18 cm in length, and maximum circumference of scrotum 27 cm for the first patient, and 31-42 cm, respectively, for the second patient, a 66 year old. At 9-month review for the first patient and 6-month review for the second patient, both donor and recipient site wounds had healed. The anal verge to base of penis length had decreased to 16 cm, while maximum circumference of scrotum had decreased to 23 cm, and 25-38 cm, respectively, for the second patient. We have had good success with reducing the burden on patients using this novel technique, and hence it should be considered as a viable treatment methodology in appropriately selected patients.

Background The facial artery is a high-risk structure when performing filler injections at the nasolabial fold, buccal, and mandibular regions. Objectives This study aimed to establish reference landmarks locating the course of the facial artery and its essential branches. Methods Thirty-one embalmed cadavers were enrolled in this study. The course of the facial artery was observed in regard to the following reference points: masseter insertion, oral commissure, and common bony landmarks. The corner of the mouth was utilized as the landmark to measure the turning point of the facial artery. Results Seven points were established to identify the course and turning point of the facial artery. These included the anterior masseteric, lateral mental, infraorbital, medial canthal, basal alar, post-modiolar (PMP), and supra-commissural (SCP) points. The course of the facial artery deviates at least twice at the lateral mental points and at the SCP or PMP. The facial artery appeared more medially when the artery turned at the PMP and SCP. It presented through the lateral channel if the turning point was solely at the PMP. Wherever the facial artery deviates, it can be divided into 3 segments: the mandibular, buccal, and nasolabial segments. The arterial course may deviate laterally from the mouth corner towards PMP. The nasolabial segment may also deviate laterally to the basal alar point at the alar grove for 0.5 to 1 cm. Conclusions The deviation of facial artery closely relates with mandibular, buccal, and nasolabial segments. It is essential in avoiding arterial injury for physicians and surgeons who perform procedures in these areas.

The aim of this study was to determine whether the islanded facial artery myomucosal flap (iFAMM) is a good alternative to fasciocutaneous free flaps (FCFF) in the reconstruction of lateral oral tongue defects. This was a retrospective study of 40 patients with oral tongue cancers (lateral lesions not >4 cm) operated on between August 2014 and March 2017, who underwent primary reconstruction with either an iFAMM or FCFF. The two groups were compared with respect to intraoperative time, total intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital stay, complications, speech, swallowing, aesthetics, donor site morbidity, and economic feasibility. Patients who had an iFAMM had a reduced operating time, duration of ICU stay, and length of hospitalization; this flap was also more economically feasible. Better aesthetics and less donor site morbidity were also seen. The iFAMM is an alternative to FCFF in the reconstruction of lateral oral tongue defects, as it is less technically demanding, has good aesthetic outcomes, and is more economical, with acceptable donor site morbidity.

Background The forehead is a challenging area for filler injection because of the risk of serious complications. Anatomy-based filler injection techniques help to avoid severe vascular complications. Materials and methods Sixty-six cadaver heads were infused with adequate lead oxide contrast through the external carotid arteries, internal carotid arteries, facial artery, and superficial temporal artery. Three-dimensional computed tomography scans were reconstructed using validated algorithms. We measured the length and arc length of "beautiful" foreheads evaluated by 3 skilled surgeons. Results The frontal branch of the superficial temporal artery (FBSTA) was classified based on the main trunk as follows: Type I FBSTA (89.72%) took a sudden turn (89.56° ± 11.76°) once passing through the temporal crest, whereas Type II FBSTA (10.28%) barely turned (52.26° ± 6.81°) at the temporal crest. A total of 319 arteries passed through the midline in 48 cadaver heads. There were more superficial arteries (292 of 319) than deep arteries (27 of 319). The difference in the length and arc length of the forehead was 19.66 ± 4.35 mm. Conclusion This study introduces an effective technique for forehead filler injection that minimizes the risk of filler injection and improves patient satisfaction.

Nasolabial flaps are widely used in reconstruction of orofacial structures using trans-buccal tunnel in two stages. Inferiorly based islanded nasolabial flaps can be harvested with meticulous skeletonization of facial vessels proximal to flap and transferred behind mandible through mylohyoid tunnel. This variation in technique of harvest and transfer increases the flap distal reach, avoids restriction in tongue mobility and allows single-stage tongue reconstruction. We present a series of operated patients of early lesions of tongue carcinoma with this newer technical modification and their functional outcome. This study included biopsy proven 8 patients diagnosed with early stage (T2, T3) carcinoma tongue. Single-stage islanded nasolabial flaps based on facial artery and vein were harvested and tunnelled behind mandible onto the tongue defect. Follow up of all patients was recorded with respect to speech, deglutition and tongue mobility. All operated patients had good functional outcome in terms of swallowing, speech and tongue mobility. All patients were satisfactory with the postoperative results. In comparison to microvascular reconstruction, this option justifies a reliable and a cost-effective approach especially in co-morbid patients.

Introduction The nasolabial fold (NLF) causes particular concern during aging in the middle face region. However, arterial complications of filler injections at this site have been continually reported during recent years. The aim of this study was to investigate the arterial locations and their anastomotic pathways related to filler injection sites in the NLF. Materials and methods Thirty hemi-faces of 15 embalmed Thai cadavers were dissected. Three anatomical landmarks of NLFs were assigned: the inferior margin level (NLF1), the mid-philtral horizontal line level (NLF2), and the inferior alar level (NLF3). Ten hemi-faces of five soft embalmed Thai cadavers underwent a modified Sihler's staining procedure to investigate the arterial anastomoses. Results The artery closest to all of the landmarks was the facial artery. It was located inferomedial to NLF1 in 28%, and the mean distances along the X- and Y-axes were 3.53 ± 2.11 mm and 3.53 ± 1.75 mm, respectively. It was also located medial to NLF2 in 52.1% with an X-axis distance of 4.93 ± 1.53 mm. Several arteries were located close to NLF3, including the facial (33.3%), lateral nasal (33.3%), and infraorbital (30.0%) arteries. Anastomoses of the nasolabial arteries served to connect both the external-external and internal-external carotid systems. Conclusions Several arteries are located close to NLF1-NLF3. To prevent arterial injury, the locations and anastomotic pathways, as possible sources of severe complications, should be recognized prior to NLF filler injection.

The facial artery pedicle nasolabial island flap (FAPNIF) is widely used for oral and maxillofacial reconstruction. However, its use in reconstruction after malignant tumour resection is limited by the possibility of ipsilateral cervical lymph node metastasis along the facial artery. Through fine dissection, it was found that the contralateral FAPNIF can be used to repair the defect after buccal carcinoma resection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of the contralateral FAPNIF for buccal defect repair. From 2013 to 2016, 30 patients underwent the repair of a buccal defect with a contralateral FAPNIF after tumour resection. Clinical outcomes and complications were recorded and quality of life was evaluated preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperative. The flaps survived in all 30 cases. Mean mouth opening was 2.50±0.14cm at 1 month, 3.22±0.25cm at 6 months, and 3.35±0.23cm at 12 months postoperative. With regard to patient quality of life, adverse effects included impaired aesthetics, pain, and difficulty eating; these usually subsided within 1year after surgery. The contralateral FAPNIF is easily harvested and is a safe and effective option for the repair of medium-sized buccal defects after the resection of carcinoma.

The blood supply of the lateral nasal wall acquires a great deal of interest for many reasons especially for the treatment of clinical conditions such as epistaxis that sometimes needs surgical interventions and endoscopic sinus and skull base surgeries that requires a good choice of endonasal flaps including inferior nasal concha (commonly named as inferior turbinate by clinicians) flap to close the dural defects. Successful treatment of epistaxis and closure of such defects depends on detailed anatomical knowledge of lateral nasal wall vasculature and a vital flap with good blood supply, respectively. Because of these we aimed to study the blood supply of inferior turbinate, regarding the sources and courses of the blood vessels. Forty formalin-fixed hemisected cadaveric heads were used at Hacettepe University Anatomy Dissection Laboratory. Anatomical dissection of the inferior nasal concha and the lateral nasal wall was done by dissecting microscope. Coloring dye injection to the arteries was performed. After a detailed examination of the lateral nasal wall; the position of the sphenopalatine foramen (SPF) and the sphenopalatine artery (SPA) were identified. The posterior lateral nasal artery (PLNA) found to give middle and inferior conchal (turbinate) arteries. The average length of the inferior turbinate artery (ITA) was 9.057 ± 1.674 mm, the diameter was 1.452 ± 0.172 mm, the distance from posterior end of inferior turbinate was 7.879 ± 1.52 mm. Anastomosis in the lateral nasal wall between the ITA and the anterior ethmoidal and the lateral nasal (branch of the facial artery) arteries were established. The blood supply of inferior nasal concha is mainly provided by ITA and its anastomotic contributors. Detailed knowledge related to it, before surgical interventions, may reduce intraoperative bleeding and increase endoscopic exposure.

Background Injection of hyaluronic acid filler, a common procedure for nasolabial fold correction, poses a risk of vascular compromise, which can result in skin necrosis and blindness. Objectives The aim of this study was to examine the facial arterial pathway in real time by Doppler ultrasound to avoid arterial complications during filler injections. Methods The facial artery pathway of 40 patients (80 nasolabial folds; 2 men and 38 women; mean age, 46.5 years; range, 28-72 years) was examined by Doppler ultrasound before hyaluronic acid filler injection. On the basis of this ultrasound evaluation, the filler injection targeted the subdermal, subcutaneous, and deep to submuscular layers by bypassing the facial artery. The efficacy of the filler injection was evaluated for each patient. Results The facial artery was detected lateral to the nasolabial fold in 31% of patients; it was detected beneath the nasolabial fold in the other patients as follows: subdermal layer, 13%; subcutaneous layer, 29%; muscular layer, 24%; and submuscular layer, 4%. The mean [standard deviation] Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale score was 3.68 [0.76] before injection and 2.28 [0.78] at 3 months after injection. Two patients experienced unilateral bruising of the nasolabial fold, which resolved after 2 weeks without treatment. Conclusions Doppler ultrasound can be considered as pretreatment tool for the prevention of vascular complications during filler injections to correct nasolabial folds. Level of Evidence: 4

Objective The aim of this study is to describe in depth the precise anatomy of the vascular supply of the submandibular gland, trying to determine the existence of patterns of glandular vascularization. Knowledge of these patterns could facilitate surgical management of the gland and the submandibular gland flap. Material and methods Neck dissections of formaldehyde preserved human cadavers were performed. Submandibular and transmandibular approaches were used during the dissections. All the vascular branches found were registered and classified into 2groups: main or accessory branches. The anatomical data analyzed was: The diameter and length of the main and accessory branches, as well as the most important measurements of the submandibular gland flap pedicle. Results 33 glands were dissected to study the arterial supply of the submandibular gland (17 right, 16 left; 17 males, 16 females) and 29 were dissected to study the venous supply (15 left, 14 right; 15 males,14 females). A total of 123 arterial branches were found reaching the 33 submandibular glands (47 main and 76 accessories) and 116 venous branches were found draining the 29 submandibular glands (47 main branches and 69 accessory branches). A constant main venous branch that ran parallel to the Wharton duct and drained in the sublingual vein was found in all of cases (Concomitant Wharton Duct Vein or CWDV). Conclusion The CWDV is a constant venous branch for the drainage of the gland and should be considered as venous pedicle during the dissection of submandibular gland flaps.

To determine the anatomical variations and morphology of the external carotid artery (ECA) and its anterior branches. Using computed tomography angiography (CTA), the origin, internal diameter, and surface laterality emergence of the superior thyroid (STA), lingual (LA), and facial (FA) arteries were evaluated retrospectively evaluated and classified. The bifurcation level of the common carotid artery (CCA) in relation to the cervical vertebrae and disc was also determined. A total of 76 CTA were included in the study. STA originated from the carotid bifurcation (CB) (type I), CCA (type II) and ECA (type III) in 20.4 (31/152), 17.1 (26/152) and 50.7% (77/152) cases, respectively. Also 10.5% (16/152) arose from a shared trunk with LA as a thyrolingual trunk (TLT) (type IVa), and absent in 1.3% (2/152). LA originated in the CB in only one case. A linguofacial trunk (LFT) was present in 14.5% (22/152). Mean diameters of STA, LA and FA were 1.70, 1.95 and 2.45 mm, respectively. Meanwhile, surface laterality were predominately from anteromedial, medial, and anterior, respectively. CB was mainly on C3 or C3–C4 (55.9% of cases). STA origin below the ECA is a common finding. Our population presented the highest percentage of TLT (10.5%) and high CB (9.8%) in literature. Considering these variations are important to prevent complications in neck surgical procedures.

Background Xerostomia is one of the most common long-term adverse effects of radiotherapy for head and neck cancer patients. Contralateral submandibular gland transfer (SMG-T) before radiotherapy was shown to reduce xerostomia compared to pilocarpine. We sought to evaluate a modification of this surgery preserving the ipsilateral facial artery and vein to simplify the SMG-T. Methods Eighteen patients planned for head and neck intensity modulated radiotherapy to both necks were reviewed. Surgical complications were recorded. The grade of xerostomia was assessed after treatment completion. Results There were no minor or major complications resulting from the modified SMG-T. At 24.5-months follow up, the incidence of post-treatment moderate to severe xerostomia was 16.7%. No locoregional recurrence occurred. Only one patient had distant solitary lung metastasis. Conclusion The modified SMG-T technique is a practical and effective method to reduce the dose of radiation to the contralateral SMG and limit post-treatment xerostomia.

Even in cases of cardiac arrest caused by hemorrhagic shock, when reliable control of the bleeding source is possible, ECPR may be an effective treatment option if anticoagulant therapy is well‐managed and is withdrawn early.

Free functional muscle transfer (FFMT) is a salvage procedure recommended in cases of brachial plexus injury with late presentations or failures of primary nerve reconstruction. The workhorse for most authors is the gracilis, and the most common indication is the restoration of elbow flexion. For successful revascularization of the muscle, donor vessels must be in proximity of the site of the muscle fixation and allow direct coaptation to a donor nerve, ideally without the use of nerve grafts. A major problem occurs when patients have sustained concomitant vascular injuries to the subclavian and/or axillary arteries and had previous surgical dissections in the area where the most common vascular pedicles are located. The authors report the use of the rerouted facial vessels as donors in these complex cases. The surgical technique is presented, along with three cases where the procedure was used. The flaps survived in all the patients and grade > 3/5 muscle contraction was observed in the two patients who had adequate follow-up. Conclusion: the use of the facial vessels as donor vessels is an option to revascularize a FFMT in the setting of severe vascular injury to the subclavian and axillary arteries.

Background The surgical management and reconstruction after ablation of squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue and floor of mouth are quite challenging. If not reconstructed properly, the deficits resulting from the extirpation of even relatively small (T1 and T2) tumors of the tongue can impact speech and deglutition via tongue tethering and poor anterolateral mobility. Functional outcome studies regarding the utility of the pedicled facial artery musculamucosal (FAMM) flap for reconstruction of partial glossectomy defects are limited. Methods This is a retrospective single institutional study of patients who underwent FAMM flap reconstruction for oral cavity defects resulting from partial glossectomy (2009-2013). Follow-up data included postoperative complications, defect size, operative time, and subjective functional results (tongue mobility, speech, and swallowing capabilities).The MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory and a limited self-assessment of speech were sent to all living patients in this initial tongue cancer cohort to assess aspects of functional status. Results Of the 21 patients studied in this initial FAMM flap cohort, 18 are currently living. The MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory and a limited self-assessment survey of speech were sent to these individuals 6 months after treatment completion. Eight patients (44%) returned completed questionnaires. All of the respondents disagreed or strongly disagreed with the statement that they felt excluded from others because of their eating habits, 6 of the 8 of the respondents stated that they disagreed or strongly disagreed with the statement that they have to limit their food intake, and none felt that others were irritated by their eating habits. All felt that their speech was either good, very good, or excellent. No surveyed patient reported having job difficulty because of their speech. Conclusions The FAMM flap is a reliable alternative for reconstruction of small oral tongue defects without functional deficits and a great alternative to free flap reconstruction of medium-sized defects. The encouragement of patient functional outcome studies and longitudinal follow-up studies need to be conducted in efforts to best tailor a reconstruction plan for patients with oral tongue cancers.

Summary Aim of the study Blood supply of the skin of the face is mainly provided by 3 branches of the external carotid artery: facial artery (FA), superficial temporal artery (STA) and transverse facial artery (TFA) which is a branch of the STA. The aim of the study was to describe the arterial territories of the skin of the face depending on the external carotid branches. Material and methods After dissection of the first two centimeters of these arteries on one side, we performed an injection of India ink of different colors in the arteries in order to describe the arterial territories (angiosomes) of the face on 24 embalmed cadavers. Results The lips and the tip of the nose were vascularized in most cases by the FA. The STA vascularizes the temporal and frontal areas and a part of the auricle. The buccal area blood supply is coming from the FA with a participation of the TFA which is variable (10/24 cases), and the zygomatic area blood supply is coming from the STA with a participation of the TFA (9/24 cases). Conclusions Variations in the angiosomes of the face have to be considered in reconstructive surgery, and in face transplantation.

The facial artery is an important artery of the face, prone to many variations. Identification of these variations is of utmost importance in clinical practice, especially rhinoplastic and orofacial surgeries and also super selective chemotherapy procedures. In this case report, we report a bilateral facial artery variation encountered in a male cadaver during routine dissection. Instead of terminating as the angular artery, the facial artery terminated as the superior labial artery, giving the lateral nasal artery as a smaller branch, much closer to the midline than normal. A prominent pre-masseteric branch was noticed along with smaller branches from the infraorbital artery which offered possible compensation for the short facial artery. The case reported is a type II variation according to Bayram classification, and a type C variation as per Loukas classification. This variation is very rare and should be kept in mind while performing any surgical procedures of the face. Keywords: Facial artery variation, Pre-masseteric artery, Superior labial artery, Facial surgeries, Facial flaps.

Background The radial forearm free flap (RFFF) is the most commonly used flap for defects of the oral cavity. The facial artery musculomucosal (FAMM) is a safe and effective method to reconstruct medium sized defects of the oral cavity. No comparison exists between the FAMM flap and RFFF. Methods 1) Retrospective chart review from 2007 to 2016. 2) Cost difference analysis. Results Thirteen FAMM flap cases and 18 RFFF met inclusion criteria. The FAMM flap showed a tendency to lower rates of return to the operating room (p = 0.065) as well as lower rates of complications not requiring return to the OR with 1 complication in 1 patient as opposed to 10 patients with 15 complications (p = 0.008). Also, FAMM flap had shorter operative times compared to the RFFF group (7.2HR and 8.9 HR respectively, p = 0.002). The average operative room related costs for a FAMM flap were 6510 CAD vs 10,703 CAD for RFFF (p p > 0.05). Conclusion The FAMM flap can be used for reconstruction of medium-size defects of the oral cavity with functional outcomes similar to the RFFF while decreasing the associated costs and morbidity. Graphical Abstract

ObjectiveTo determine the association of arteriosclerosis, characterised by hyperechogenic intimal lesions (HIL), with wall thickness of the temporal and facial arteries in elderly patients with ocular arterial occlusions.MethodsPatients suffering from non-arteritic ocular perfusion disorders were included. High-resolution compression sonography (18 MHz) images of the temporal arteries (frontal and parietal branch at the upper margin of the auricle) and facial arteries (at the crossing point of the artery over the mandible) were analysed for the presence of HIL (grade 0: absent; grade 1: moderate; grade 2: severe). Characteristics of patients with and without evidence of HIL >grade 1 were compared.ResultsIn total, 330 cranial artery segments of 55 patients were analysed. HIL ≥grade 1 was present in 13.0% of all artery segments and in 38.1% of all patients. Patients with HIL ≥grade 1 in at least one arterial segment displayed significantly increased maximum wall thickness of the temporal arteries (0.62±0.23 mm vs 0.50±0.13 mm; pConclusionThe presence of HIL goes along with a significantly increased wall thickness of the temporal and facial arteries. These findings should be considered when interpreting the results of sonography of the cranial arteries in the diagnostic workup of suspected giant cell arteritis.