Common carotid artery
Common Carotid Artery
The Common Carotid Artery (/kəˈrɒtɪd/; from the Greek karōtis, meaning "drowsiness") is a large, bilateral artery in the neck that supplies blood to the head and neck.
Anatomy
The Common Carotid Artery originates from the Aortic Arch on the left side and from the Brachiocephalic Trunk on the right side. It ascends in the neck and divides into the Internal Carotid Artery and the External Carotid Artery.
Function
The primary function of the Common Carotid Artery is to provide oxygenated blood to the head and neck. The Internal Carotid Artery supplies blood to the brain, while the External Carotid Artery supplies blood to the face and neck.
Clinical Significance
The Common Carotid Artery is often palpated clinically to assess the pulse and determine the rate and rhythm of the heart. It can also be the site of Carotid Artery Disease, which can lead to stroke.
Related Terms
- Aortic Arch
- Brachiocephalic Trunk
- Internal Carotid Artery
- External Carotid Artery
- Carotid Artery Disease
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Common carotid artery
- Wikipedia's article - Common carotid artery
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