External Carotid Artery
The External Carotid Artery is a major blood vessel that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the face and neck. It branches off from the Common Carotid Artery, which divides into the external and internal carotid arteries. The external carotid artery has several branches that provide blood to various structures, including the jaw, scalp, and base of the skull.
This artery plays a crucial role in maintaining blood flow to essential areas. Its branches include the Maxillary Artery, which supplies the deep facial structures, and the Superficial Temporal Artery, which supplies the scalp. Understanding the external carotid artery is important for medical professionals, especially in surgeries involving the head and neck.