Anatomical Location of the Temporal Artery in Relation to the Ear
The superficial temporal artery is typically located anterior to the ear, running vertically approximately 1-2 cm in front of the tragus of the ear, where it can often be palpated as it crosses over the zygomatic arch (the cheekbone). 1
Detailed Anatomical Description
The superficial temporal artery (STA) is a terminal branch of the external carotid artery that supplies the regions of the scalp and face. Its anatomical relationship to the ear is characterized by several key features:
Position relative to ear structures:
- Courses posterior to the mandibular condyle (jaw joint)
- Passes over the posterior zygomatic root (cheekbone)
- Located approximately 16.7 mm anterior to the tragus of the ear 2
Bifurcation pattern:
- In 79.1% of cases, the STA bifurcates above the zygomatic arch
- In 11.1% of cases, bifurcation occurs on the zygomatic arch
- In 6.7% of cases, bifurcation occurs below the zygomatic arch 1
Terminal branches:
- Frontal branch (present in 97.6% of cases)
- Parietal branch (present in 96.4% of cases) 1
Clinical Significance
Understanding the location of the temporal artery is important for several clinical applications:
- Pulse point: The STA provides an easily accessible pulse point anterior to the ear
- Temporal arteritis diagnosis: Biopsy site for suspected giant cell arteritis
- Surgical procedures: Critical landmark for temporal flaps in reconstructive surgery 2
- Vascular imaging: Important reference point in CT angiography and MR angiography studies 3
Anatomical Variations
The STA demonstrates significant anatomical variability that may be clinically relevant:
- Course variations: In 65.1% of cases, the STA follows a retrocondylar path, while in 13.6% it takes a laterocondylar course 4
- Branching patterns: The parietal branch may be absent unilaterally (16.3%) or bilaterally (9.3%) 4
- Arterial kinking: Various patterns of kinking and coiling occur in 88.4% of STAs 4
Vascular Networks
The temporal region contains four distinct arterial networks corresponding to different tissue layers, with the STA contributing significantly to this vascular supply 5. The anterior tympanic artery, which supplies the middle ear, shows variable origin but frequently branches from either the maxillary artery or the superficial temporal artery 6.
Understanding the precise location and variations of the temporal artery is essential for diagnostic procedures, surgical planning, and clinical assessment in the temporal region.