Posterior Auricular Artery - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The posterior auricular artery is an artery of the head and neck region. It is the sixth main branch of the external carotid artery. It contributes to the blood supply of the ear and posterior scalp. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The posterior auricular artery arises from the external carotid artery at the level of the styloid process tip. It travels in a superior direction, passing between the parotid gland (anterior) and the styloid process (posterior). At the level of the pinna, the posterior auricular artery passes posteriorly to run between the pinna and the mastoid process of the temporal bone. It terminates by dividing into numerous branches which anastomose with the occipital artery within the posterior scalp area. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The course of the posterior auricular artery. It terminates as several small branches in the posterior scalp. Supply The posterior auricular artery contributes to the blood supply of the following structures: Stylomastoid branch – supplies the middle and inner ear. Posterior tympanic branch – supplies the tympanic membrane. Auricular branch – contributes to the supply of the pinna and extrinsic auricular muscles. Occipital branch – supplies the posterolateral scalp. Parotid branch – supplies the parotid gland. Frequent questions What is the posterior auricular artery? The posterior auricular artery is a branch of the external carotid artery that supplies blood to the ear and posterior scalp. It is the sixth main branch of the external carotid artery and plays a crucial role in vascularising various structures in the head and neck. Where does the posterior auricular artery originate? The posterior auricular artery originates from the external carotid artery at the level of the styloid process tip. It ascends between the parotid gland and the styloid process before reaching its target areas. What structures does the posterior auricular artery supply? The posterior auricular artery supplies several important structures, including the middle and inner ear, tympanic membrane, pinna, extrinsic auricular muscles, and the posterolateral scalp. Its branches ensure adequate blood flow to these regions. How does the posterior auricular artery course through the head? The artery travels in a superior direction, passing between the parotid gland and the styloid process, before running posteriorly between the pinna and the mastoid process of the temporal bone. It ultimately divides into branches that anastomose with the occipital artery in the posterior scalp. What are the clinical implications of the posterior auricular artery? Understanding the anatomy and function of the posterior auricular artery is essential for surgical procedures involving the ear and scalp. Its branches are significant in supplying blood to critical areas, which can be affected in various medical conditions or injuries. Rate This Article