In human anatomy, the internal carotid artery is a major artery of the head and neck. It arises from the common carotid artery when it bifurcates into an internal and external branch. It has no branches in the neck. It ascends and enters the skull through the carotid canal. Inside the cranium, it gives off the ophthalmic artery and trifurcates into:

1. anterior cerebral artery
2. middle cerebral artery
3. posterior communicating artery

The internal carotid artery, anterior cerebral artery and posterior communicating artery on each side contribute to an important anastomosis supplying the brain, the cerebral arterial circle, which is more commonly known as the Circle of Willis.

See also

• Carotid endarterectomy
• Carotid sinus
• Circle of Willis

External links

• Loyola

Arteries | Thorax | Head and neck

Arteria carotis | Carotide | Artéria carótida interna