Thyroid ima artery

Thyroid ima artery is an anatomical structure that is not always present in the human body. When it does exist, it arises from the brachiocephalic artery, aorta, or right common carotid artery, and supplies blood to the thyroid gland. The term "ima" in Latin means "lowest," referring to the artery's position in the body.

Etymology

The term "thyroid ima artery" is derived from the Latin word "ima," meaning "lowest," and "thyroid," referring to the gland it supplies. The term "artery" comes from the Greek word "ἀρτηρία" (artēría), meaning "pipe, conduit, or hose," which describes the function of an artery to carry blood away from the heart.

Anatomy

The thyroid ima artery is an inconsistent anatomical structure, meaning it is not always present in every individual. When it does exist, it typically arises from the brachiocephalic artery, aorta, or right common carotid artery. It then descends in the neck to supply the thyroid gland with blood. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located in the front of the neck, just below the Adam's apple. It produces hormones that regulate the body's metabolic rate, heart and digestive function, muscle control, brain development, and bone maintenance.

Clinical significance

The presence of a thyroid ima artery can have clinical significance in surgical procedures involving the thyroid gland. Surgeons must be aware of its existence to avoid damaging it during surgery, which could lead to excessive bleeding or damage to the thyroid gland.

Related terms

• Brachiocephalic artery: A major blood vessel of the heart that supplies blood to the right arm, head, and neck.
• Aorta: The main and largest artery in the human body, originating from the left ventricle of the heart and extending down to the abdomen.
• Right common carotid artery: One of the two main blood vessels that supply the head and neck with oxygenated blood.
• Thyroid gland: An organ that produces hormones which regulate the body's metabolic rate, heart and digestive function, muscle control, brain development, and bone maintenance.

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