Home > Medical Reference > Patient Education

Carotid artery surgery - series - Normal anatomy

Normal anatomy:

There are two carotid arteries, one on each side of the neck. In turn, the left and right carotid arteries each branch into an internal and external division. The carotid arteries deliver oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the head and brain.

Reviewed last on: 9/25/2008
Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.