Topics

Topic

design image
Polar temporal artery

The Polar Temporal Artery is a small but important branch of the superficial temporal artery that supplies the anterior portion of the temporal region of the scalp. Its recognition is relevant in both clinical and radiological settings due to its role in scalp vascularization, surgical planning, and its potential involvement in vascular diseases such as temporal arteritis. Knowledge of its course is also important in avoiding complications during surgical procedures involving the temporal region.

Synonyms:

  • Anterior temporal artery (sometimes used interchangeably)

  • Frontal branch of the superficial temporal artery (in some anatomical texts)

  • Polar branch of the superficial temporal artery

Origin and Course:

  • The polar temporal artery typically arises from the superficial temporal artery, which itself is a terminal branch of the external carotid artery.

  • Originates anteriorly from the superficial temporal artery just above the level of the zygomatic arch.

  • It courses superiorly and slightly anteriorly, running superficially over the temporal fascia towards the lateral aspect of the forehead and scalp.

  • The artery travels close to the skin and may be palpated in thin individuals.

  • It supplies blood to the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and temporalis muscle in the anterior temporal region.

  • May anastomose with branches of the supraorbital and frontal arteries.

Function:

  • Provides arterial blood supply to the anterior temporal scalp and adjacent soft tissues.

  • Plays a role in thermoregulation and nourishment of the scalp.

  • Important collateral vessel in cases of temporal arteritis or in vascular compromise of the scalp.

MRI Appearance:

  • Appears as a small, flow-void structure in the anterior temporal region on standard MR sequences, especially on T2-weighted images.

  • May be highlighted using MR angiography (MRA), where it can be traced as a thin, enhancing linear structure branching from the superficial temporal artery.

  • In cases of temporal arteritis, the vessel wall may appear thickened and show contrast enhancement on post-contrast fat-suppressed T1-weighted images.

CT Appearance:

  • On non-contrast CT, it may not be distinctly visualized due to its small size.

  • On contrast-enhanced CT angiography (CTA), the artery appears as a thin, enhancing linear or tubular structure overlying the temporal bone, anterior to the auricle.

  • Calcification or mural thickening can sometimes be visualized in chronic arteritis.

  • Surrounding soft tissue changes or fat stranding may be seen in inflammatory conditions.

MRI image

Polar temporal artery MRI 3T coronal image

CT images

Polar temporal artery CT axial anatomy image -img-00001-00001