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Visualization techniques of the facial arteries
Author(s) -
Mespreuve Marc,
Waked Karl,
Hendrickx Benoit
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
journal of cosmetic dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.626
H-Index - 44
eISSN - 1473-2165
pISSN - 1473-2130
DOI - 10.1111/jocd.13477
Subject(s) - visualization , medicine , carotid arteries , modalities , contrast (vision) , radiology , computer science , artificial intelligence , surgery , social science , sociology
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.