Anatomical Variations in the Origin of Superior Thyroid Artery and its Relation with External Laryngeal Nerve and their Clinical Importance-A Cadaveric Study

Authors

  • Manjappa T College of Medical Sciences, Bharatpur, Nepal
  • Ruku Pandit College of Medical Sciences, Bharatpur, Nepal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v9i01.37964

Keywords:

External carotid artery, External laryngeal nerve, Superior thyroid artery

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The major arterial supply of thyroid gland is from superior and inferior thyroid arteries. The superior thyroid artery (STA) usually arises from the external carotid artery. The external laryngeal nerve runs in close proximity to the origin of the superior thyroid artery later leaves the artery by turning medially above or below the upper pole of the thyroid gland.

 

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A descriptive study was undertaken on 20 embalmed cadavers. The anterior triangle of neck was dissected bilaterally. The site of origin of STA level of origin in relation to the upper border of lamina of thyroid cartilage and relation of the STA with external laryngeal nerve were observed and noted.

 

RESULTS

The STA arises from the external carotid artery in 27.5%, common carotid artery in 62.5%, common carotid bifurcation in 5% and arises by a common trunk with lingual artery at common carotid bifurcation in 5%. The distance from the upper pole to the point where external laryngeal nerve turns medially is more than 10 mm in 50%, less than 10 mm in 25% and 10 mm in 25%.

 

CONCLUSION

The variations in the pattern of origin of the superior thyroid artery and its relation to external laryngeal nerve is a very common phenomenon. The head and neck surgeons must be aware of all possible variations to avoid postoperative complications and legal issues.

 

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Author Biographies

Manjappa T, College of Medical Sciences, Bharatpur, Nepal

Department of Anatomy

Ruku Pandit, College of Medical Sciences, Bharatpur, Nepal

 Department of Anatomy

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Published

2021-06-22

How to Cite

T, M., & Pandit, R. (2021). Anatomical Variations in the Origin of Superior Thyroid Artery and its Relation with External Laryngeal Nerve and their Clinical Importance-A Cadaveric Study. Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences, 9(01), 33–37. https://doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v9i01.37964

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Section

Original Articles