18 The posterior auricular artery

The posterior auricular artery is not the most important branch of the external carotid. However, because of its anastomoses, treating it improves the results on the occipital and superficial temporal arteries.

18.1 Anatomy

18.1.1 Origin

The posterior auricular artery (Fig. 18.1A,B) arises from the dorsal side of the external carotid artery, just above the occipital artery. These arteries sometimes share a common trunk. It is the most superior of the posterior branches of the external carotid artery.

Fig. 18.1 (A) Posterior auricular artery. (B) Arteries behind the ear pavilion.

18.1.2 Pathway

The posterior auricular artery penetrates the parotid gland, and ascends between the auricle and the mastoid process.

18.1.3 Collaterals

The posterior auricular artery supplies branches to the parotid gland and the skin covering it. The stylomastoid branch orginates from the posterior auricular artery.

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