Superficial temporal artery

Where is the artery located and what is its course?

The artery originates at the level of the mandibular neck, ascends within the thickness of the parotid gland, and then lies superficially above the root of the zygomatic arch. Superior to the zygomatic arch, the vessel divides into terminal branches. In the temporal region, it is projected vertically anterior to the tragus (tragus). Medial to it lies the auriculotemporal nerve (n. auriculotemporalis). When planning head flaps, the base of the flap should be directed inferiorly, toward the skull base, to preserve blood supply, typically involving the a. temporalis superficialis.

What branches does the superficial temporal artery give off?

Superior to the zygomatic arch, the artery divides into two main terminal branches:

• Frontal branch (r. frontalis) — runs toward the frontalis muscle, orbicularis oculi muscle, and forehead skin.
• Parietal branch (r. parietalis) — supplies the skin of the parietal region and forms anastomoses with the contralateral side.

Along its course, the vessel gives off the following branches:

• Parotid branches (rr. parotidei) — to the parotid gland.
• Transverse facial artery (a. transversa faciei) — to the facial muscles.
• Anterior auricular branches (rr. auriculares anteriores) — to the auricle.
• Middle temporal artery (a. temporalis media) — pierces the fascia and supplies the temporalis muscle (m. temporalis).
• Zygomaticoorbital artery (a. zygomaticoorbitalis) — runs toward the orbital region and anastomoses with the lacrimal artery.

Which vessels does the artery anastomose with?

The branches of the artery form an extensive anastomotic network:

• The frontal branch anastomoses with the supraorbital artery (a. supraorbitalis), connecting the external and internal carotid artery systems.
• The parietal branch anastomoses with the occipital artery (a. occipitalis).
• The branches of the left and right superficial temporal arteries interconnect.
• In internal carotid artery stenosis, a collateral pathway is possible: superficial temporal artery → angular artery → ophthalmic artery → filling of the internal carotid siphon.

What is the clinical significance of the vessel?

The pulsation of the a. temporalis superficialis is used by physicians to assess blood pressure and in the diagnosis of temporal arteritis. When planning soft tissue flaps on the head, the base of the flap is directed inferiorly toward the skull base to preserve blood supply, typically involving the a. temporalis superficialis.

Class and exam questions

What else to study on this topic

• External carotid artery
• Ophthalmic artery
• Auriculotemporal nerve
• Collateral circulation of the brain

Other topics in the "Anatomical Structures" section

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