Arteria labialis superior

Arteria Labialis Superior is a branch of the facial artery that supplies blood to the upper lip and nose. It is a significant artery in the human anatomy and plays a crucial role in the circulatory system.

Anatomy

The Arteria Labialis Superior arises near the angle of the mouth. It ascends to the upper lip, lying between the mucous membrane and the orbicularis oris muscle. It then crosses the cheek to the side of the nose, supplying the septum and ala of the nose.

Function

The primary function of the Arteria Labialis Superior is to supply oxygenated blood to the upper lip and the nose. It ensures the healthy functioning of these structures and contributes to the overall circulatory system of the face.

Clinical Significance

In medical procedures involving the upper lip or nose, such as surgeries or treatments for conditions like cleft lip or nasal polyps, the Arteria Labialis Superior may be of significant consideration due to its role in blood supply. Understanding its anatomy can help in minimizing blood loss during such procedures.

See Also

• Facial artery
• Human circulatory system
• Orbicularis oris muscle

References

• Gray, Henry. Anatomy of the Human Body. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger, 1918; Bartleby.com, 2000. www.bartleby.com/107/.
• Moore, Keith L., et al. Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 7th ed., Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2013.