The facial artery is a primary source of blood to the face
Facial Artery Overview
The facial artery, also known as the external maxillary artery, is a primary source of oxygenated blood to the muscles and skin of the face. It is one of the eight branches of the external carotid artery[1][2][3][4].
Course and Structure
- Origin and Pathway: The facial artery arises from the anterior surface of the external carotid artery within the carotid triangle of the neck. It travels superiorly and obliquely, passing beneath the digastric and stylohyoid muscles, and closely associated with the posterior surface of the submandibular gland[2][3][4].
- Route: The artery takes a tortuous path, curving upwards over the body of the mandible at the antero-inferior angle of the masseter muscle. It then ascends along the nasolabial fold (the “smile lines” running from the corners of the nose to the sides of the mouth) towards the medial canthus of the eye, where it terminates as the angular artery[1][2][3][4].
Branches and Supply
- Cervical Branches:
- Ascending Palatine Artery: Supplies the soft palate and palatine tonsils.
- Tonsillar Branch: Supplies the palatine tonsils.
- Submental Artery: Supplies the floor of the mouth and sublingual gland.
- Glandular Branches: Supply the submandibular gland[2][3][4].
- Facial Branches:
- Inferior Labial Artery: Supplies the lower lip.
- Superior Labial Artery: Supplies the upper lip, nasal septum, and ala of the nose.
- Lateral Nasal Branch: Supplies the external nose.
- Angular Artery: The terminal branch, supplies the external nose, lower eyelid, orbicularis oculi, and lacrimal sac[1][2][3][4].
Clinical Significance
- Surgical Importance: The facial artery’s tortuous course and its branches are crucial for aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries. Surgeons need to be aware of its anatomy to avoid vascular compromise during procedures such as facelifts, filler injections, and tumor removals[1][4][5].
- Anastomosis: The facial artery has significant anastomoses with the internal carotid artery branches, particularly the ophthalmic artery, which is important for maintaining collateral circulation[1][3].
Conclusion
The facial artery is a vital structure for supplying blood to the face. Its detailed knowledge is essential for medical professionals, especially those involved in surgical and aesthetic procedures, to ensure effective and safe outcomes.
Citations:
[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/facial-artery
[2] https://teachmeanatomy.info/encyclopaedia/f/facial-artery/
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Facial_artery
[4] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24988-facial-artery
[5] https://www.verywellhealth.com/facial-artery-anatomy-4693318
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBNIK2MpMzw