Superficial temporal artery parietal branch

The superficial temporal artery (STA) is a branch of the external carotid artery that supplies blood to the scalp and face. The parietal branch of the STA is one of its terminal branches, which arises from the STA as it passes through the parietal region of the scalp, an area located toward the top and back of the skull.

The parietal branch of the STA supplies blood to the parietal region of the scalp, which includes the area above and behind the ears. It gives off smaller branches that supply the skin, hair follicles, and sweat glands in this area.

In addition to its blood supply function, the parietal branch of the STA can also be used as a source of blood supply in certain surgical procedures. For example, in reconstructive surgery or scalp flaps, it may be used to provide a source of blood flow to the graft or flap.

Like other branches of the STA, the parietal branch may also be affected by certain medical conditions, such as giant cell arteritis, a type of inflammatory disease that can affect the temporal arteries and cause headaches, jaw pain, and visual disturbances.