Biomedical
Visualizing the Individual Arterial Anatomy of the Face Through Augmented Reality— A Useful and Accurate Tool During Dermal Filler Injections
Karl Waked
Karl Waked
University Hospital Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
Peer Reviewed
Abstract
"Background: The arterial anatomy of the face is extremely variable. Despite numerous cadaver dissections and anatomical descriptions, the exact location of the superficial facial arteries remains unpredictable. This ignorance is a determining factor in the pathophysiology of intravascular filler injections, potentially causing skin necrosis and blindness. Objectives: The main objective of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of an augmented reality (AR) application that visualizes the individual arterial anatomy of the face. Methods: A workflow was developed during which a magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) mapped the superficial arteries of the face. The images were further processed into an AR image that was visualized on the patient's face using a specifically designed smartphone application. The accuracy of the AR image and the position of each individual artery were analyzed using duplex ultrasound (US). Results: A total of 216 facial arteries were visualized in 20 patients. The superficial temporal (100%), supratrochlear (92.5%), facial (75%), and angular (82.5%) arteries were visualized the most. The inferior labial (17.5%), dorsal nasal (22.5%), and supraorbital (42.5%) arteries were the most difficult to visualize through MRA. The average deviation between the artery visible on the AR image and the location assessed by US was 0.30 mm (standard deviation = +/- 0.66 mm). There were no complications reported. Conclusions: The combination of a risk-free MRA to map the individual arteries of the face and the processing into an AR image may be considered as a useful and accurate tool during dermal filler injections to potentially minimize the risk of intravascular filler injections."
Key Questions
Why is it hard to predict the location of facial arteries?
The arteries in the face are highly variable from person to person, making it difficult to predict their exact locations. This unpredictability is a big problem during procedures like dermal filler injections, where accidentally injecting filler into an artery can lead to serious complications like skin damage or even blindness.
What was the goal of this study?
The study aimed to test the accuracy of an augmented reality (AR) app designed to map out the arteries in a patient’s face. By using this tool, doctors hoped to reduce the risk of accidentally injecting filler into an artery during cosmetic procedures.
How did the AR app work?
First, a special type of MRI called magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) was used to map the arteries in the face. These images were then turned into an AR model that could be viewed on a smartphone. When the app was used, it projected the AR image of the arteries onto the patient’s face, giving doctors a real-time guide during procedures.
How accurate was the AR app?
The AR app was very accurate, with an average deviation of just 0.30 mm between the AR image and the actual location of the arteries as confirmed by ultrasound. Some arteries, like the superficial temporal artery, were visualized 100% of the time, while others, like the inferior labial artery, were harder to map.
What does this mean for cosmetic procedures?
This AR tool could be a game-changer for procedures like dermal filler injections. By giving doctors a clear, real-time view of the arteries in the face, it could help them avoid injecting filler into the wrong place, reducing the risk of complications like skin damage or blindness.
Were there any complications during the study?
No complications were reported during the study, showing that the MRA and AR process is safe and effective for mapping facial arteries.
