Visualization techniques of the facial arteries

• Published in: Journal of cosmetic dermatology Vol. 20; no. 2; pp. 386 - 390
• Main Authors: Mespreuve, Marc, Waked, Karl, Hendrickx, Benoit
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England John Wiley and Sons Inc 01.02.2021
• Subjects: Arteries - diagnostic imaging; cosmetic procedure; Face - diagnostic imaging; filler; Humans; Magnetic Resonance Angiography; MRI; Review; ultrasound; filler; cosmetic procedure; MRI; ultrasound
• ISSN: 1473-2130; 1473-2165; 1473-2165
• DOI: 10.1111/jocd.13477

Background As the face is known for its extreme variation in vascular anatomy and the number of filler‐associated complications due to intra‐arterial injection is increasing, we are in need of a method to visualize anyone’s individual arterial anatomy of the face in a completely harmless way. Aims The different medical imaging methods and a recently developed MRA protocol are reviewed. Methods The literature of the last twenty years—with special attention for the last five years—concerning the different medical imaging modalities of the facial arteries was reviewed. Results A harmless visualisation of the facial arteries is currently only possible with US or MRA. US may identify single vessels but never the complete arterial network. A combination of IR “heat enhancement” and a MRA 3D‐TOF sequence might make it feasible to visualize a large number of facial arteries in a risk‐free, radiation‐free, contrast‐free and non‐invasive way. Conclusion Currently, a new combination of IR “heat enhancement” and a MRA 3D‐TOF sequence might be the only method to visualize a large number of facial arteries.