The anatomy of the superficial temporal artery in patients with unilateral microtia.

Publication date: Available online 28 September 2018

Source: Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery

Author(s): Clara M. Olcott, Patrick E. Simon, Thomas Romo, William Louie

Summary

Background

This is a retrospective study that evaluated the anatomical distribution of the superficial temporal artery (STA) in supply of the temporoparietal fascial (TPF) flap for use in unilateral microtia patients undergoing reconstruction. We aimed to determine if embryologic arrest of pharyngeal arch development would lead to aberrant STA which impedes reliable harvest of the TPF flap in patients requiring microtia repair.

Methods

CT angiograms (CTA) and 3-D reconstruction of the face and neck of 41 microtia patients, aged 6 to 21 years, were examined. The number of STA branches, branching pattern, vessel diameter, and the presence or absence of the external auditory canal atresia were documented.

Results

The superficial temporal artery crosses the zygoma on average 4mm more anterior to the porion (anterior-inferior lip of the tympanic part of temporal bone) on the side with microtia compared to the non-microtia side. There were no statistically significant differences between vessel caliber or STA branches between the two sides.

Conclusion

The STA is anatomically reliable for inclusion in TPF flaps being used in auricular reconstruction for microtia patients. A TPF flap can be safely harvested with routine technique, though surgeons should be cognizant of the STA coursing more anteriorly on the microtia ear.