Scalp Arteries, Lateral View

Description

Arterial branches of the scalp course over a male cranium in lateral profile, dominated by the superficial temporal artery as it ascends anterior to the auricle and divides into frontal and parietal branches within the temporoparietal fascia. Posteriorly, the occipital artery tracks superiorly toward the occiput, while the posterior auricular artery runs just posterior to the external ear, all set against the lateral skull, orbit, and nasal aperture. Deeper in the neck, the common carotid artery and its bifurcation to the external carotid artery are suggested as the proximal source for these scalp vessels, with companion superficial veins shown in blue along predictable drainage pathways. Surface anatomy matters here. Palpation of the superficial temporal artery just anterior to the tragus is a routine clinical maneuver in suspected giant cell (temporal) arteritis, and the vessel’s serpentine course also explains why it is vulnerable in lateral scalp lacerations and during temporal region incisions. Surgical planning for scalp flaps and temporoparietal fascia flaps depends on knowing where the superficial temporal and occipital systems run relative to the zygomatic arch, superior temporal line, and the auricle. Bleeding can be brisk. Use this artwork in head and neck anatomy labs, dermatologic and plastic surgery teaching on scalp vascular territories, or as a figure in atlases and review articles discussing temporal arteritis, scalp reconstruction, or safe incision lines in the temple and occipital regions. It also fits well in patient-facing education explaining why small scalp wounds can bleed disproportionately. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.