THYRO-LINGUO-FACIAL TRUNK OF EXTERNAL CAROTID ARTERY: A RARE VARIATION

Abstract

The complicated process of angiogenesis and remodelling which includes annexation and regression of vessels may give rise to variations in the branches of external carotid artery. The knowledge of variations in the branching pattern of external carotid artery (ECA) is important for surgical procedures in the neck region, such as radial neck dissection, catheterization, reconstruction of aneurysm, carotid endarterectomy and intervention radiology. The anatomical consequences of anomalous branching pattern of external carotid artery may have important clinical implications. A rare, common branch of the ECA, a thyro-linguo-facial trunk was found on right side in a 65 years old male cadaver during routine dissection. After giving a branch to thyroid gland as superior thyroid artery, this trunk ran forwards and medially as linguo-facial trunk and divided into lingual and facial arteries. The hypoglossal nerve was crossing the linguo-facial trunk.