Vessel
Internal carotid artery
Main artery to the brain
High-yield
Gives no branches in the neck; supplies the anterior brain and the eye (ophthalmic artery). Major source of embolic (anterior circulation) stroke.
Overview
A terminal branch of the common carotid that enters the skull through the carotid canal to supply the brain and eye, contributing to the circle of Willis.
Reference facts
- Type
- Elastic/muscular artery
- Origin
- Common carotid artery
- Branches / tributaries
- Ophthalmic artery; Anterior cerebral artery; Middle cerebral artery; Posterior communicating artery
- Supplies
- Anterior cerebral circulation and the eye
- Course
- Ascends without branching in the neck, enters the carotid canal, traverses the cavernous sinus, and enters the cranial cavity
Frequently asked questions
Where does the internal carotid artery originate?
The internal carotid artery arises from the common carotid artery.
What does the internal carotid artery supply?
The internal carotid artery supplies the anterior cerebral circulation and the eye.
What are the branches of the internal carotid artery?
Branches of the internal carotid artery include the ophthalmic artery; Anterior cerebral artery; Middle cerebral artery; Posterior communicating artery.
What is the course of the internal carotid artery?
Ascends without branching in the neck, enters the carotid canal, traverses the cavernous sinus, and enters the cranial cavity.