The artery carotis externa, commonly known as the external carotid artery, is one of the main arteries located in the neck region. It is a major branch of the common carotid artery, which emerges from the aorta in the chest and runs upwards in the neck. The external carotid artery supplies oxygenated blood to various structures in the head and neck, including the face, neck muscles, scalp, and most of the structures in the oral cavity.
An important feature of the arteria carotis externa is its high degree of branching. It gives rise to numerous smaller arteries that distribute blood to different areas of the head and neck region. Some of the major branches include the superior thyroid artery, lingual artery, facial artery, occipital artery, and maxillary artery.
The external carotid artery plays a crucial role in providing blood supply to the structures involved in nourishing facial expression and mastication, as well as in facial sensation. This artery also anastomoses with the branches of the internal carotid artery, which supplies blood to the brain, ensuring redundancy and alternate pathways for blood flow in case of any blockage or other issues.
Understanding the anatomy and function of the arteria carotis externa is essential in various medical procedures, including surgeries for head and neck tumors, reconstruction surgeries, and in assessing abnormalities or diagnosing diseases in the head and neck region.
