Definition

Noun: A carotid artery is either of the two major arteries located in the neck that supply oxygenated blood to the head and brain. They are critical vessels that branch from the aorta.

Usage

The term "carotid artery" is used in medical, anatomical, and general health contexts to refer to these specific blood vessels. It is typically modified by "left" or "right" to specify which side of the body is being discussed. - The doctor checked the pulse in his carotid artery. - A blockage in the carotid artery can increase the risk of stroke.

Advanced Usage

• "Carotid artery stenosis": The abnormal narrowing of the carotid artery, usually due to atherosclerosis.
  • The ultrasound revealed significant carotid artery stenosis.
• "Carotid artery dissection": A tear in the inner layer of the carotid artery wall.
  • Sudden neck pain can be a symptom of a carotid artery dissection.

Variants and Related Words

• Common carotid artery (n): The main section of the carotid artery before it bifurcates (divides) into internal and external branches.
  • The common carotid artery ascends through the neck.
• Internal carotid artery (n): The branch of the carotid artery that supplies blood to the brain and eyes.
• External carotid artery (n): The branch of the carotid artery that supplies blood to the face and neck.

Synonyms

• Carotid (n): A common shortened form used in medical contexts.
  • The surgeon clamped the carotid to control bleeding.

Related Phrases

• Carotid pulse: The pulse that can be felt on either side of the neck over the carotid artery.
  • First responders often check for a carotid pulse in an emergency.
• Carotid endarterectomy: A surgical procedure to remove plaque from the carotid artery.
  • He underwent a carotid endarterectomy to prevent a future stroke.

Noun

1. either of two major arteries of the neck and head; branches from the aorta