Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Aim: Assessment of facial artery variation and its clinical implication for facial surgeries. Materials & methods: A total 10 formalin-fixed faces of unknown cadavers were dissected. The age of the cadavers was not noted. Course, main branches and termination of facial artery on face was noted and photographed. Facial artery was noted at two regions, namely at the point of its origin and at the antero-inferior angle of masseter where it enters the face. Gross variations in the arterial supply of face were also noted. Results: Out of 10 cases, type I facial artery was seen in 30 percent of the cases while type II facial artery was seen in 50 percent of the cases. In the remaining 20 percent of the cases, type III facial artery was seen. Conclusion: The facial artery musculo-mucosal flap has many advantages. Hence; adequate knowledge about the precise course and branching pattern of the facial artery is required.