Temporal Superficial Artery: Anatomical Features and Role in the Human Body
The superficial temporal artery (abbreviated as STA) is one of the most important arteries responsible for the blood supply to the head and face. It runs along the side of the head, starting from the temporal cavity and extending to the frontal part of the skull. In this article we will take a closer look at the anatomical features of the STA and its role in the human body.
Anatomy of STA
The STA is one of the branches of the external carotid artery, which leaves the neck and ascends to the head. The STA runs along the surface of the head, approximately at the level of the top of the ear, and divides into two main branches: the frontal artery and the temporal artery.
The artery of the temporal region, in turn, is divided into the anterior and posterior temporal arteries. The anterior temporal artery runs along the temporal bone and supplies the scalp and face. The posterior temporal artery extends to the occipital region and provides blood supply to the skin of the back of the head.
Role of STA in the body
The STA is an important artery that provides blood supply to the scalp and face. It plays a key role in maintaining the vital activity of the skin and all the tissues it nourishes. In addition, the STA is an important source of blood supply to certain muscles of the head, such as the muscles of mastication and the muscles responsible for eye movement.
STA also plays an important role in some medical procedures. For example, it can be used as a donor artery to reconstruct blood vessels in other parts of the body. In addition, STA can be used as a tissue source for plastic surgery on the face and head.
Conclusion
The STA is an important artery that provides blood supply to the scalp and face. It plays a key role in maintaining the vital activity of the skin and all the tissues it nourishes. In addition, the STA plays an important role in some medical procedures and can be used as a donor artery in the reconstruction of blood vessels in other parts of the body and as a source of tissue in facial and scalp plastic surgery. In general, knowledge of the anatomy and functional features of the STA is important for medical professionals and scientists involved in the study of the head and face, as well as for those planning to perform medical procedures in this area.
The superficial temporal artery (a. temporalis superficialis) is one of the branches of the external carotid artery, which passes through the temporal region and supplies the skin and muscles of the face.
The superficial temporal artery begins from the external carotid artery at the level of its connection with the common carotid artery. It passes through the middle cranial fossa and exits onto the surface of the skull through the temporal foramen. On its way, the artery passes through the temple, parietal bone and occipital bone, where it branches into small branches.
The main functions of the superficial temporal artery are to supply the skin and muscles of the face, as well as blood supply to the temporomandibular joint. In addition, the artery can participate in the blood supply to the temporal lobe of the brain and other structures of the skull.
Damage to the superficial temporal artery can lead to disruption of blood supply to the skin and muscles of the head and face, which can lead to various complications such as the formation of skin ulcers, loss of skin sensitivity, impaired muscle movement, etc.
To prevent damage to the superficial temporal artery, it is necessary to monitor the condition of the vessels and blood vessels, and avoid injuries and damage to the head. If you suspect arterial damage, you should see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.