Arteria facialis

Arteria facialis or the facial artery is a branch of the external carotid artery that supplies blood to the structures of the face. It is a major artery of the head and neck, and its course and branches are of clinical significance in several medical and surgical disciplines.

Anatomy

The arteria facialis originates from the external carotid artery near the level of the neck's lower border. It then ascends in a tortuous course across the side of the face, passing over the mandible at the antero-inferior edge of the masseter muscle.

The artery gives off several branches along its course, including the ascending palatine artery, tonsillar branch, submental artery, and the inferior and superior labial arteries. These branches supply blood to various structures in the face, including the palatine tonsils, submandibular glands, lips, and nasal septum.

Clinical Significance

Due to its superficial course and the vital structures it supplies, the arteria facialis is of significant clinical importance. It can be involved in several pathological conditions, including facial trauma, infections, and tumours.

In facial trauma, the artery can be injured, leading to significant bleeding. In such cases, knowledge of the artery's course is crucial for effective management.

The artery can also be involved in infections of the face, where it can act as a route for the spread of infection. Similarly, tumours of the face can invade the artery, affecting its function and complicating treatment.

See Also

• External carotid artery
• Mandible
• Masseter muscle
• Palatine tonsils