Upper Sternocleidomastoid Branch of Occipital Artery (Right)
Ramus sternocleidomastoideus superior arteriae occipitalis
Read moreQuick Facts
Origin: Occipital artery.
Course: Descend posteriorly to enter the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Branches: None.
Supplied Structures: Sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Origin
The upper sternocleidomastoid branch of the occipital artery arises from the occipital artery.
Course
There are two sternocleidomastoid branches that arise from the occipital artery, the upper and lower sternocleidomastoid branches.
The upper sternocleidomastoid branch of the occipital artery arises where the occipital artery is crossed by the accessory nerve. The upper sternocleidomastoid branch descends posteriorly, passing the internal jugular vein superficially, to enter the sternocleidomastoid muscle along with the accessory nerve.
Branches
There are no named branches.
Supplied Structures
The sternocleidomastoid branches of the occipital artery help supply the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
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Artery
Arteries are vessels transporting blood between heart, tissues, and other organs in order to supply them with nutrition and oxygen.
