Arteria auricularis posterior is a medical term referring to the vein that supplies blood to the ear. The pronunciation of this term is /ɑːtɪərɪə ɔːrɪˈkjʊlərɪs pɒsˈtɪərɪə/. The first two syllables are pronounced as in "artillery," while the next two syllables rhyme with "malaria." The final two words are pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, and the last syllable of each word is pronounced similarly to the word "area." Medical professionals and students of anatomy must learn the precise spelling and pronunciation of complex medical terms like this one.
The arteria auricularis posterior, also known as the posterior auricular artery, is a small branch of the external carotid artery. It is commonly found in human anatomy. The external carotid artery is a major blood vessel that supplies oxygenated blood to various structures in the head and neck region. The arteria auricularis posterior arises from the external carotid artery just above the level of the styloid process of the skull.
This artery courses posteriorly, passing through the parotid gland, a salivary gland located in front of the ear. It then ascends towards the posterior part of the auricle, which is the external visible portion of the ear, supplying blood to this region.
As a branch of the external carotid artery, the arteria auricularis posterior plays a crucial role in the vascularization of the auricle and the surrounding tissues. It provides the necessary oxygen and nutrients to these structures, enabling their proper functioning. Additionally, it also contributes to the nourishment of the nearby muscles and skin.
Understanding the anatomical structures and their blood supply is essential for medical professionals, such as surgeons and radiologists, as it helps in identifying and diagnosing potential issues related to the blood flow in this region.
Origin, external carotid; branches, muscular, parotid, auricular, and occipital rami, and stylomastoid artery.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.