Glands of the Head & Neck MCQs

The maxillary artery is one of the terminal branches of the external carotid artery which divides within the parotid gland; the retromandibular vein is the vein corresponding to the external carotid artery within the gland. The buccal branch of the facial nerve arises within the gland but the buccal branch of the trigeminal mandibular nerve does not pass through the gland. The facial artery is closely associated with the submandibular gland. Reference: Textbook of Gray's Anatomy for students, 3rd Edition, Head and neck, page number - 985

The given vignette explains Sialadenitis. Sialadenitis and sialadenosis are common causes of submandibular gland swelling. Submandibular sialadenitis is inflammation of the submandibular gland, which is caused by salivary stasis that leads to retrograde seeding of bacteria from the oral cavity. Sialadenosis is a benign, non-inflammatory swelling of salivary glands usually associated with metabolic conditions. Submandibular triangle also known as Digastric triangle. Reference: Textbook of Gray's Anatomy for students, 3rd Edition, Head and neck, Page number - 1006

Explanation: Ligation of thyroid arteries is performed with nerve protection in the mind. The superior thyroid artery must be ligated near the apex of the gland to avoid damaging the external laryngeal nerve , which lies deep to the artery. The inferior thyroid artery must be ligated away from the base of the gland to avoid injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve , which is very close to the artery near its entry into the thyroid. Superior Thyroid Artery: Located at the upper pole of the thyroid. The external laryngeal nerve runs close to it. Ligation near the gland protects the nerve. Inferior Thyroid Artery: Related closely to the recurrent laryngeal nerve at the lower pole. Ligation away from the gland minimizes the risk of nerve damage. Clinical Importance: These ligation principles prevent voice changes, hoarseness, or airway problems due to nerve injury.