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Lingual Artery

arteria lingualis

The lingual artery is the primary blood supply to the tongue, passing deep to the hyoglossus (while the hypoglossal nerve lies superficial to the muscle). Its tortuous course through the tongue provides the mobility needed for lingual articulation without vascular compromise during extreme tongue movement. Lingual artery ligation is performed for severe tongue haemorrhage and during tongue base tumour resection.

Region: Head & Skull

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	External carotid artery at the level of the hyoid bone

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The lingual artery and hypoglossal nerve maintain a consistent anatomical relationship at the hyoglossus: the nerve is superficial and the artery deep, making the hyoglossus the surgical landmark for finding both structures during floor of mouth and tongue base surgery. Lingual artery aneurysms are rare but produce pulsatile floor of mouth masses. Bilateral lingual artery ligation reduces tongue vascularity and is avoided unless absolutely necessary for haemostasis.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Lingual Artery Haemorrhage

Massive tongue bleeding from lingual artery injury in trauma or surgery requiring arterial ligation or angiographic embolisation.