[Anatomical characteristics of lingual artery in physiological condition and its relationship with tongue base].

OBJECTIVE

To provide the clinical anatomic data of the lingual artery with 3D CT reconstruction.

METHOD

Ten healthy subjects were recruited. Spiral CT scan ranged from the sternoclavicular joint to the lower edge of the orbit and the data was subjected to three-dimensional reconstruction. The distance from the origin of the lingual artery to the bifurcation of the common carotid artery and tip of the greater horn of hyoid bone were measured respectively and the distance between the midline of the lingual artery and the midline of tongue were also measured.

RESULT

The horizontal distance between starting level of lingual artery to the level of the hyoid horn tip was (1.51 +/- 0.35) cm. The horizontal distance between the level of the lingual artery to the carotid bifurcation was (0.95 +/- 0.31) cm. The comparison of the distance from lingual artery 1 cm anterior or posterior to foramen cecum to midline of tongue showed (t = 45.27, P < 0.01) a statistically significant difference.

CONCLUSION

The lingual artery could be demonstrated clearly in 3D reconstruction. To ensure the operative safety, the depth of radiofrequency for OSAHS at the tongue base should be limited within 2 centimeters.