External carotid artery

A major artery supplying blood to the face and neck.

The external carotid artery is a key blood vessel branching off from the common carotid artery. It primarily supplies blood to the face, salivary glands, neck, and portions of the head. This artery plays a crucial role in ensuring adequate blood flow to various structures in the upper body.

Terminologia Anatomica

arteria carotis externa

System

Circulatory system

Function

The external carotid artery is essential for delivering oxygenated blood to a broad range of tissues in the head and neck region. It branches into several key arteries, such as the maxillary artery, which supplies the maxilla and mandible, and the superficial temporal artery, which irrigates the lateral side of the head. The artery also provides branches to the facial, occipital, and lingual areas, ensuring that the muscles of facial expression, salivary glands, and tongue receive necessary nutrients and oxygen. This vascular network supports not only motor functions but also sensory activities, the immune response via blood-borne cells, and thermoregulation in the facial region.

Location

The external carotid artery originates from the common carotid artery, typically located at the level of the fourth cervical vertebra (C4). It ascends alongside the neck and terminates near the ear, where it divides into the superficial temporal and maxillary arteries. As it traverses the neck, it gives rise to several important branches that supply various structures, including the posterior auricular artery, the facial artery, and the lingual artery, among others. Its surface path can be traced along the side of the neck, making it accessible for palpation in clinical settings.

Did You Know?

The external carotid artery has several branches that can be clinically evaluated to check for blood flow issues.
Conditions like atherosclerosis can significantly affect the external carotid artery, impacting blood supply to the head and neck.
The facial artery, a branch of the external carotid artery, is often referred to as the 'lip artery' due to its significant role in supplying blood to the lips.