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A Bilateral Variation in the Origin of the Superior Laryngeal Artery: A Case Report

Abstract

Abstract:
Introduction: Arterial supply to the neck is subject to a great spectrum of variations of which some are very rare.
Purpose: To describe a rare bilateral variation in the origin of the superior laryngeal artery and highlights its clinical relevance.

Methods: The variation was encountered for the first-time during a thorough dissection of the neck region of a in a formalin – embalmed 70-year-old Caucasian female cadaver for educational purposes. It was described and documented using digital photography.

Results: The superior laryngeal artery, in both hemi-necks, took unusual branching patterns. In the right hemi-neck, the superior laryngeal artery arose from the lingual artery, 1.2 cm distal from the branching origin of the latter from the external carotid artery. As for the left hemi-neck, the superior laryngeal artery branched directly out of the external carotid artery, 1 cm superior to the branching of the superior thyroid artery and 1.5 cm inferior to the origin of the lingual artery. On both sides, they followed their destinations to perforate the thyrohyoid membrane and supply the larynx.

Conclusion: These bilateral variations, in the same body, for the origin of the superior laryngeal artery are described for the first time. Awareness of such variations helps in avoiding unnecessary complications following surgical interventions in the laryngeal area.

Acceptance Date Apr 1, 2023
Publication Date May 1, 2023
Journal Journal of Academic Development and Education Anatomical Sciences Special Edition
Print ISSN 2051-3593
DOI https://doi.org/10.21252/74a1-1641
Keywords Superior Laryngeal artery, Lingual artery, External Carotid artery, bilateral variation, laryngeal surgery
Publisher URL https://doi.org/10.21252/74a1-1641

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