Posterior auricular artery: Anatomical variations and neurosurgical applications

Abstract

Introduction: The posterior auricular artery (PAA) is the preterminal branch of the external carotid artery (ECA), arising superiorly to the occipital artery (OA). The PAA has quite a few anatomical variations and established neurosurgical applications. We conducted this study as an overview to illustrate all neurosurgical aspects regarding this artery, its reconstructive uses, and anatomical variation.

Method:  We performed a literature review in Google Scholar and PubMed medical databases for studies discussing the PAA, its anatomical variations, and neurosurgical applications.

Results: We identified 30 articles that discuss the anatomical variations and neurosurgical applications of the PAA. While reviewing the available articles and original works regarding PAA.

Conclusion: The PAA has considerable anatomical variations regarding its origin, course, branches, and length. The related neurosurgical applications of PAA include bypass, embolization, aneurysm, AVM, and reconstruction flaps.