Cricothyroid artery

Cricothyroid Artery

The cricothyroid artery is a branch of the superior thyroid artery.

The Cricothyroid Artery is a small branch of the superior thyroid artery that supplies blood to the cricothyroid muscle and the cricoid cartilage in the larynx. It is a vital component of the circulatory system in the neck region.

Anatomy

The cricothyroid artery originates from the superior thyroid artery, which is a branch of the external carotid artery. It travels downwards and medially to reach the cricothyroid muscle and the cricoid cartilage.

The cricothyroid artery supplies the cricothyroid muscle and the cricoid cartilage.

Function

The primary function of the cricothyroid artery is to supply oxygenated blood to the cricothyroid muscle and the cricoid cartilage. The cricothyroid muscle plays a crucial role in the production of sound by tensing and relaxing the vocal cords. The cricoid cartilage is the only complete ring of cartilage around the trachea and plays a vital role in maintaining the open airway.

Clinical significance

Damage to the cricothyroid artery can lead to significant bleeding and can compromise the blood supply to the cricothyroid muscle and the cricoid cartilage. This can potentially affect voice production and airway maintenance.

See also

• Superior thyroid artery
• Cricothyroid muscle
• Cricoid cartilage
• Larynx