Anatomical courses of the deep and superficial septal branches of the superior labial artery in the columella and nasal tip for use in clinical rhinoplasty and reconstructive surgeries.

[PURPOSE] Understanding the detailed course of the septal branch of the superior labial artery is crucial for improving the safety and efficacy of both invasive and noninvasive nasal procedures. This study aimed to clarify the anatomical courses and variations of the deep and superficial septal branches of the superior labial artery in the columella, with particular attention paid to their clinical implications in rhinoplasty and reconstructive surgeries.

[METHODS] The deep and superficial septal branches of the superior labial artery were examined in 40 Korean embalmed cadavers. Detailed dissections were performed to trace the course of the septal branch, measure its diameter, and document its branching patterns.

[RESULTS] The deep septal branch of the superior labial artery arose from the middle portion of this artery, coursing anteriorly just below the septal cartilage. It emerged between the superior border of the orbicularis oris and the septal cartilage, ascending toward the nasal tip in 90.0% of cases. The branch divided into two main branches at the upper (27.5%), middle (5.0%), and lower (47.5%) levels of the columella. In another 10.0% of cases the branch either did not ascend to the columella or only reached the middle level. The superficial septal branch was found to anastomose with the deep septal branch at the columellar base in several cases, and its diameter varied, being thicker than the deep septal branch in some cases. The superficial septal branch also exhibited various branching patterns that contributed significantly to the vascularization of the columella and nasal tip.

[CONCLUSION] This study has yielded comprehensive anatomical data on the deep and superficial septal branches of the superior labial artery, highlighting its clinical significance in nasal surgeries and procedures. These findings offer valuable insights for optimizing procedural outcomes and minimizing complications in rhinoplasty and reconstructive surgeries.