Anatomical Variations in the Superior Thyroid Artery: A Systematic Review and Implications for Free Flap Surgery.

ABSTRACT: Background: The superior thyroid artery (STA) exhibits significant anatomical variability, which is crucial for head and neck surgical procedures, particularly free flap reconstruction. This systematic review synthesizes the current knowledge on STA origin, branching patterns, perfusion territory, and its relationship with the superior laryngeal nerve (SLN), focusing on implications for flap selection and surgical planning. Methods: A comprehensive search of relevant databases was conducted to identify studies reporting on STA anatomy. Data extraction focused on the STA origin variations, relationships with anatomical landmarks, branching patterns, perfusion territory, and the STA-SLN relationship. Emphasis was placed on variations impacting STA's suitability as a recipient v

SUBMITTER: Aleksandra K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12429784 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature