Regarding the anatomy of the palatine tonsil, which structure lies immediately lateral to the tonsillar capsule and is at greatest risk during tonsillectomy, potentially causing significant hemorrhage if injured?
- A Internal carotid artery
- B Facial artery
- C Tonsillar branch of the facial artery (ascending palatine artery) ✓
- D Lingual artery
Correct answer: C. Tonsillar branch of the facial artery (ascending palatine artery)
Explanation
The tonsillar branch of the facial artery (also called the ascending palatine artery) enters the tonsil at its lower pole and runs in the pharyngobasilar fascia lateral to the tonsillar capsule. It is the most commonly injured vessel during tonsillectomy and a common source of both primary and secondary post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage. The internal carotid artery lies posterolateral but is 2.5 cm away and rarely injured. The facial artery itself is more proximal.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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