The study of arterial anastomoses in the region of the alveolar process and the anterior maxilla wall in foetuses

Abstract

The anterior maxilla wall and alveolar process are covered by the arterial network. Procedures in this region can cause heavy bleeding. Knowledge of the anatomical course of a particular artery is essential for performing surgery in this area. The aim of this study was to search for and then analyse anastomoses between the infraorbital and posterior superior alveolar artery. In the study, 19 maxillas of foetuses were analysed. The arteries were injected with coloured latex. The dissection was carried out using a surgical microscope and microsurgical equipment. The lower eyelid with cheek skin was separated and the facial muscles were cut to expose the maxilla and arteries of the alveolar process.
The study revealed that in 10 out of 19 of the specimens there was an arterial connection between the infraorbital and posterior superior alveolar artery. The course of the analysed anastomosis was diverse. In all cases we observed an anterior superior alveolar artery. In all specimens the alveolar process was vascularised by many arteries originating from the analysed anastomosis. The location of the analysed anastomosis can be stated before operation, on the line between the medial eye angle and the sixth tooth of the same side. The anastomosis described in the study means that caudally running arteries are important in choosing incisions in procedures performed at the alveolar process.