Ascending pharyngeal artery

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Ascending Pharyngeal Artery[edit | edit source]

Diagram showing the branches of the external carotid artery, including the ascending pharyngeal artery.

The ascending pharyngeal artery is a small but significant artery in the head and neck region. It is one of the branches of the external carotid artery, and it plays a crucial role in supplying blood to various structures in the pharyngeal region.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The ascending pharyngeal artery is the smallest branch of the external carotid artery. It arises from the posterior aspect of the external carotid artery, near its origin. The artery ascends vertically between the internal carotid artery and the side of the pharynx.

Ascending pharyngeal artery illustration.

Branches[edit | edit source]

The ascending pharyngeal artery gives off several branches that supply different areas:

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the ascending pharyngeal artery is to supply blood to the pharynx, the prevertebral muscles, and the cranial meninges. It also contributes to the vascular supply of the middle ear and the soft palate.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The ascending pharyngeal artery is of clinical importance due to its involvement in various medical conditions. It can be a source of bleeding in cases of epistaxis (nosebleeds) and is sometimes involved in tumors of the head and neck region. Its proximity to the internal carotid artery makes it a critical structure during surgical procedures in the neck.

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD