Hyoid (infrahyoid) artery

Hyoid (Infrahyoid) Artery

The infrahyoid artery, also known as the hyoid artery, is a small branch of the thyrocervical trunk.

The Hyoid (Infrahyoid) Artery is a small branch of the thyrocervical trunk that supplies blood to the hyoid bone and the surrounding muscles. It is part of the carotid arterial system and is located in the neck.

Anatomy

The infrahyoid artery originates from the thyrocervical trunk, which is a branch of the subclavian artery. It travels upward and medially to reach the hyoid bone, where it divides into several smaller branches. These branches supply blood to the infrahyoid muscles, the sternohyoid muscle, the omohyoid muscle, and the thyrohyoid muscle.

The infrahyoid artery and its branches.

Clinical Significance

Due to its location and small size, the infrahyoid artery is rarely involved in medical conditions. However, it can be affected by neck injuries or surgeries. Damage to the infrahyoid artery can lead to bleeding, hematoma formation, and potential compromise of the blood supply to the hyoid bone and infrahyoid muscles.

See Also

• Thyrocervical trunk
• Hyoid bone
• Carotid arterial system