Halsarterierna

Halsartärerna, also known as carotid arteries, are two major arteries in the neck that supply blood to the head, face, and brain. The right and left common carotid arteries arise from the brachiocephalic trunk and the aortic arch respectively. As they ascend the neck, they lie on either side of the trachea, encased within the carotid sheath along with the internal jugular vein and vagus nerve.

Approximately at the level of the thyroid cartilage, each common carotid artery bifurcates into two terminal branches: the external carotid artery and the internal carotid artery. The external carotid artery primarily supplies blood to the face, scalp, and neck structures. It branches extensively, giving rise to arteries like the facial artery, lingual artery, and superficial temporal artery.

The internal carotid artery, on the other hand, is responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to the brain and the orbits. It enters the skull through the carotid canal and divides into its terminal branches within the cranial cavity. These branches are crucial for the vascular supply of the cerebrum, contributing to the anterior and middle cerebral arteries, which are major components of the circle of Willis. Blockage or narrowing of the carotid arteries, often due to atherosclerosis, can lead to stroke, making them a significant focus in cardiovascular health.