ABSTRACT
Objective To explore the anatomical basis for clinical application of the compound flap pedicled with arterial arch of palpebral margin by observing eyelid blood supply and anatomical structure and to prove that it is an ideal method of repairing the eyelid defect for clinical application. Methods 15 adult cadavers (30 eyelids) were dissected. The origin, course, branches, diameters and vessel networks of palpebral margin arterial arch were observed particularly. 30 cases of eyelid marginal defect were reviewed and the therapeutic effect of this method evaluated. Results Eyelid was constituted by 5 layers: skin, subcutaneous tissue, muscle, tarsal plate and conjunctival layers. Most eyelid vessels were mutually anastomosed to form a constant vessel network. Palpebral margin arterial arch and peripheral arterial arch were formed by dorsal nasal artery branches and lacrimal artery branches, both of which nourished the eyelid tissue. All the compound flaps of 30 cases survived completely without any complications. All cases obtained satisfactory results functionally and esthetically. Conclusions The arterial arch of palpebral margin is constant and the blood supply of the compound flap is reliable. It can repair full eyelid defect with the same kind of tissue, and obtain satisfactory appearance. It is an ideal method of repairing the eyelid defect.
