Landmarks for the facial vein within the carotid triangle and implications in carotid surgery.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31051/1852.8023.v14.n1.36834Keywords:
carotid endarterectomy; internal carotid artery; common carotid artery; veins; anatomy.Abstract
Introduction: In carotid surgery, proper anatomical knowledge is essential to reduce surgical time and complications. The aim of the present study is to provide landmarks for the localization of the facial vein in respect of the carotid bifurcation and its anatomical characteristics. Materials and methods: 20 carotid triangles of formalin fixed adult cadavers were dissected. The following measurements were recorded. The “carotid axis” was defined and measured as the distance in cm following the longitudinal axis of the common and internal carotid artery from the clavicle to the upper edge of the posterior belly of the digastric (L1). Distance of the carotid bifurcation within the carotid axis (L2). Distance of the facial vein within the carotid axis (L3). Distance between the facial vein and the carotid bifurcation (L4). Also, we recorded the number of tributaries received by the facial vein and the exit site. Results: L1 mean 14 cm (range 9.6-15); L2 Mean 10.1 cm (range 7.5-12.5); L3 Average 8.6 cm (range 5-12.6). L4 Average 1.3 cm (0.2-3.1). Discussion: In most of the cases studied, the facial vein was found below the carotid bifurcation, however the distance between the two was 1.3cm on average, so we can say that they are close to each other. Conclusion: The proximity between the facial vein and the carotid bifurcation found in the present study allows us to conclude that the facial vein is potentially useful as an anatomical landmark to locate the carotid bifurcation in carotid surgery. Also, due to its proximity, the facial vein can be injured and thus lead to complications during this procedure.
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Copyright (c) 2022 Alejandra Mansilla Lizardi, Sofía Martinez Ventura, Sofía Mansilla Rud, Matilde Lissarrague Blanco , Alejandro Russo Cousté
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