Superficial Temporal Artery

Superficial Temporal Artery

Write a short note on the superficial temporal artery.
Answer.

• It is the smaller terminal branch of the external carotid artery. It begins in the parotid gland behind the neck of the mandible.
• It runs vertically upwards across the root of the zygoma in front tragus. About 5 cm above the zygoma, the artery divides into terminal anterior and posterior branches which supply the temporal fossa and scalp.

Superficial Temporal Artery Branches

• The transverse facial artery arises within the parotid gland and runs forward over the masseter muscle. It supplies TMJ, parotid gland and masseter muscle.
• Anterior auricular branch: It supplies the lateral surface of the auricle and part of the external auditory meatus.
• Middle (deep) temporal artery: It pierces the temporal fascia to supply the temporalis muscle.
• The zygomatic-orbital branch runs towards orbit along the upper border of the zygomatic arch.
• The anterior terminal branch runs forward towards the frontal tuberosity to supply soft tissues of the region. It often becomes noticeably tortuous in old age.
• The posterior terminal branch runs upwards, backwards and towards the occipital region to supply the soft tissues in the region.