Carotid canal

Definition

The carotid canal is a passageway in the temporal bone of the skull through which the internal carotid artery enters the cranial cavity. It provides a protected path for blood flow to the brain.

Related terms

Internal Carotid Artery: A major artery that supplies blood to the brain, eyes, eyelids, forehead, nose, and internal ear.

Temporal Bone:

A bone on each side of the skull that forms part of the sides and base of the skull and houses structures important to hearing and balance.

Cranial Cavity:

The space within the skull that encloses and protects the brain