Applied anatomy of the auricular-temporal area reversal flow axial flap pedicled with supraobital artery or supratrochear artery

Objective: To study anatomic features of the blood vessels of the frontal skin flap, especially the anastomosis among them and provide basis for clinical application. Methods: The position, diameter, course and distribution of supraorbital artery, supratrochlear artery and the superficial temporal artery were dissected and observed on 15 cadavers preserved with formalin, as well the relationship among them and surrounding tissues. 5 fresh adult cadavers were prepared for vascular casting and studied. Result: Numerous anastomosis can be found among supraobital artery, supratrochear artery and the frontal branch of superficial temporal artery, which concentrated on the area between the superior boundary about 4.9±0.4cm from the orbit and the supraorbital margin, with supra-medial boundary far from the anterior median line about 1.0±0.2cm, lateral boundary far from the anterior median line about 4.5±0.4cm, inferior boundary 1.4±0.2cm and lateral boundary 2.3±0.5 cm. Conclusions: Blood supply of the frontal skin flap is affluent and the anastomosis among them is stable, which can be designed into different kinds of skin flap to serve for clinical application.