Three-dimensional structure of the orbicularis retaining ligament: an anatomical study using micro-computed tomography.

ABSTRACT: The orbicularis retaining ligament (ORL) is an important structure for maintaining the eyelid and cheek skin and contouring the characteristic facial appearance. However, the ORL is a delicate structure that is easily damaged in manual dissection. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the ORL using a micro-computed tomography (mCT) with phosphotungstic acid (PTA) preparation for the acquisition of its three-dimensional information non-destructively. Twenty-two specimens were obtained from non-embalmed human cadaver (mean age 73.7 years). Multidirectional images of the mCT showed that the ORL consisted of continuous tiny plates with a multilayered plexiform shape. The modified Verhoeff Van Gieson staining and immunofluorescence revealed a ligamentous tissue consisting of multiple

SUBMITTER: O J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6242969 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature