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 neck. This artery plays a crucial role in delivering blood to important areas such as the thyroid gland, tongue, and facial muscles. Understanding its anatomy is essential for medical professionals, especially in surgeries involving the head and neck region.