Supratrochlear artery

Last revised by Craig Hacking on 27 Jul 2022

The supratrochlear artery, also known as the frontal artery, originates from the ophthalmic artery as one of its terminal branches.

Gross anatomy

After arising from the ophthalmic artery, it pierces the orbital septum and courses in the superior and medial aspect of the orbit, medial to the supratrochlear nerve. Both the supratrochlear artery and nerve exit the orbit via the supratrochlear notch (which is medial to the supraorbital notch) and then ascend to supply the forehead and scalp.

Supply

The supratrochlear artery supplies the medial aspect of the forehead and scalp.

Anastomoses

The supratrochlear artery anastomoses with the contralateral supratrochlear, supraorbital and superficial temporal arteries. This is an example of an ICA/ECA anastomosis.

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