sköldkörtelartär

The sköldkörtelartär, or thyroid artery in English, refers to the blood vessels that supply the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a crucial endocrine gland located in the neck, responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism. There are typically two main thyroid arteries and two main thyroid veins. The superior thyroid artery arises from the external carotid artery and descends to the upper part of the thyroid gland. It supplies the superior portion of the gland and also gives branches to the cricothyroid muscle. The inferior thyroid artery originates from the thyrocervical trunk, a branch of the subclavian artery, and ascends to supply the lower and posterior parts of the thyroid gland. This artery also provides blood supply to the nearby parathyroid glands. In some individuals, additional thyroid arteries may be present, such as a thyroidea ima artery which arises directly from the aorta. The rich vascularization of the thyroid gland is essential for its proper functioning, ensuring a continuous supply of oxygen and nutrients for hormone production and secretion. Surgical procedures involving the thyroid gland, such as thyroidectomy, require careful identification and management of these arteries to prevent excessive bleeding.