Inferior thyroid artery

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Inferior Thyroid Artery

The thyroid gland and its relations. (Inferior thyroid artery labeled at center right.)

The Inferior Thyroid Artery is an artery in the neck that supplies blood to the thyroid gland. It arises from the thyrocervical trunk, which is a branch of the subclavian artery.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The Inferior Thyroid Artery typically arises from the thyrocervical trunk and ascends to the lower border of the thyroid gland. It then passes medialward and upward, crossing in front of the recurrent laryngeal nerve, the trachea, and the esophagus.

Function[edit | edit source]

The Inferior Thyroid Artery supplies blood to the thyroid gland, as well as to surrounding areas including the larynx, trachea, and esophagus. It also provides blood to the parathyroid glands.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Knowledge of the Inferior Thyroid Artery is important in surgeries involving the thyroid gland. Damage to the artery during surgery can lead to significant blood loss and potential damage to surrounding structures.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]



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