Laryngeal artery

Laryngeal artery

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Diagram of the laryngeal artery

The Laryngeal artery is a branch of the superior thyroid artery that supplies blood to the larynx. It is a vital component of the circulatory system in the neck and throat region.

Anatomy

The laryngeal artery originates from the superior thyroid artery, which is a branch of the external carotid artery. It travels downwards and medially to reach the larynx, where it divides into several smaller branches. These branches supply blood to the various structures of the larynx, including the vocal cords, epiglottis, and thyroid cartilage.

Function

The primary function of the laryngeal artery is to supply oxygenated blood to the larynx. This is crucial for the normal functioning of the larynx, which plays a key role in breathing, swallowing, and voice production.

Clinical significance

Damage to the laryngeal artery can lead to significant complications, including laryngeal edema, hemorrhage, and ischemia. It can also affect the function of the larynx, potentially leading to voice changes or difficulty swallowing.

See also

• Superior thyroid artery
• External carotid artery
• Larynx