Sternocleidomastoid Branch of Superior Thyroid Artery (Left)
Ramus sternocleidomastoideus arteriae thyreoideae superioris
Read moreQuick Facts
Origin: Superior thyroid artery.
Course: Descends laterally and crosses the carotid sheath to reach the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Branches: None.
Supplied Structures: Middle portion of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Related parts of the anatomy
Origin
The sternocleidomastoid branch of the superior thyroid artery arises from the superior thyroid artery, the first branch of the external carotid artery. However, the sternocleidomastoid branch may arise directly from the external carotid artery.
Course
The sternocleidomastoid branch of the superior thyroid artery extends laterally, crossing the carotid sheath to reach the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Branches
There are no named branches.
Supplied Structures
The sternocleidomastoid branch of the superior thyroid artery supplies the middle portion of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Learn more about this topic from other Elsevier products
Superior Thyroid Artery
The superior thyroid artery, which begins below the level of the greater horn of the hyoid bone and under the cover of the SCM, is its most important branch in the neck.
