New Insight into Glabellar Arteries: A Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography and Dissection Study

Background:Vascular complications from glabellar intravascular filler injections are major safety concerns. Filler injection into the glabella without precise knowledge of its vascular topography poses a risk of severe complications. Methods:Computed tomography was used to study 90 cadaveric heads after contrast agent and filler injection, and 15 cadaveric heads were dissected. Results:Central (CAs), paracentral (PCAs), and reverse dorsal nasal arteries (rDNAs) were found in 70 (38.9%), 58 (32.2%), and 16 (8.9%) of the 180 hemifaces, respectively. Based on the presence of CAs, PCAs, and rDNAs between the bilateral supratrochlear arteries (STAs), glabellar arteries were categorized into two main patterns: in type 1 [without named arteries between bilateral STAs; 22 of 90 (24.4%)], the glabella was supplied by bilateral STAs and their branches; in type 2 [with named arteries between bilateral STAs; 68 of 90 (75.6%)], the glabella was supplied by bilateral STAs and CAs, PCAs, and rDNAs. Type 2 could be further divided into three subtypes: in type 2a [45 of 90 (50.0%)], the glabella was supplied by bilateral STAs and one of the named arteries; in type 2b [21 of 90 (23.3%)], the glabella was supplied by bilateral STAs and two of the named arteries; and in type 2c [two of 90 (2.3%)], the glabella was supplied by bilateral STAs and unilateral CA, PCA, and rDNA. Conclusion:This study elucidated novel arterial systems and proposed considerations for glabellar filler injection.

Automated summary

This study investigated the vascular anatomy of the glabella using CT scans and dissection of cadaveric heads. Different arterial systems were identified, and two main patterns were categorized based on the presence of specific arteries. This study provides important insights for safe glabellar filler injections.