From the Research
The thyroid gland receives its blood supply primarily from the superior and inferior thyroid arteries, with the superior thyroid artery arising from the external carotid artery and the inferior thyroid artery originating from the thyrocervical trunk of the subclavian arteries, as reported in the most recent study 1. The blood supply to the thyroid gland is essential for its high metabolic activity and hormone production.
- The superior thyroid arteries supply the upper poles and anterior surfaces of the thyroid gland.
- The inferior thyroid arteries supply the lower poles and posterior surfaces of the gland.
- In some cases, an additional thyroid ima artery may be present, arising from the brachiocephalic trunk or aortic arch and supplying the lower part of the thyroid, as noted in 2. This rich vascular network is crucial for the thyroid's function and explains why thyroid surgery requires meticulous hemostasis.
- Venous drainage occurs through the superior, middle, and inferior thyroid veins, with the superior and middle thyroid veins draining into the internal jugular veins, and the inferior thyroid veins emptying into the brachiocephalic veins, as described in 3 and 4. The knowledge of the thyroid's blood supply is vital for surgeons performing thyroid and parathyroid operations, as emphasized in 1, to prevent iatrogenic injuries and ensure the preservation of parathyroid function.