The Thyroid Gland: A Revision Study on Its Vascularization and Surgical Implications

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Vascular Biology
• Surgical Anatomy

Background:

• The typical thyroid gland arterial supply involves two superior thyroid arteries (STA), two inferior thyroid arteries (ITA), and sometimes a thyroid ima artery (TIMA).
• Variations in thyroid vascularization are common and clinically significant.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize existing data on thyroid gland arterial vascularization and its anatomical variations.
• To consolidate knowledge on the origins and branching patterns of the main thyroid arteries.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive analysis of 49 articles published over the last century.
• Inclusion of diverse study types: case reports, reviews, cadaver dissections, surgical interventions, and non-invasive imaging techniques.

Main Results:

• The superior thyroid artery (STA) predominantly originates from the external carotid artery.
• The inferior thyroid artery (ITA) typically arises as a branch of the thyrocervical trunk.
• The thyroid ima artery (TIMA) is an infrequent variant, often compensating for the absence of an ITA.

Conclusions:

• A thorough understanding of normal thyroid arterial anatomy and its variations is essential for effective surgical interventions.
• Knowledge of thyroid vascularization aids in surgical planning and reduces potential complications in thyroid procedures.