Applied anatomy of superficial temporal vessel frontal branches pedicled skin flap for repairing of facial defects

Objective: To provide anatomical base for the superficial temporal vessel frontal branches pedicled skin flap for repairing of facial defects. Methods: The routes, branches and distributions of superficial temporal arteries were observed and measured on cadavers (32 sides) perfused with red latex emulsion. The surgical design was carried out on cadavers. Results: Superficial temporal artery originates from external carotid artery, rises through the parotid gland and divides into two branches: the terminal frontal and parietal branches, which are on the upper part of zygomatic arch. On the upper part of outer canthus, frontal branch divides into front obital and front parietal branches. Both of the branches are about 1mm in external diameter and the length of the free pedicle is more than 130 mm. Conclusion: It is feasible to design a superficial temporal vessel frontal branches pedicled skin flap for repairing of facial defects.