Which artery is NOT a branch of external carotid arteries?

The inferior thyroid artery is not a branch of the external carotid artery; instead, it originates from the thyrocervical trunk, which arises from the subclavian artery. This distinction is important, as the inferior thyroid artery supplies blood to the thyroid gland and surrounding structures, but does so independently from the branches of the external carotid artery.

In contrast, the facial artery, superior thyroid artery, and occipital artery are all branches that stem from the external carotid artery. The facial artery primarily supplies the face, the superior thyroid artery serves the thyroid gland, and the occipital artery supplies the posterior scalp. Understanding these anatomical relationships helps clarify the vascular supply and aids in surgical procedures that may involve these areas.