A 40 years old patient has to undergo a surgery for removal of the tongue. Ligation of which part of the lingual artery would be preferred during the surgery?
**Core Concept**
The lingual artery is a branch of the external carotid artery that supplies blood to the tongue. Ligation of this artery is crucial during tongue surgery to minimize bleeding and ensure a safe procedure.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The lingual artery originates from the external carotid artery, approximately 1-2 cm above the hyoid bone. It then descends anterior to the hyoglossus muscle, running deep to the mylohyoid muscle. Ligation of the lingual artery at the level of the hyoid bone or above is preferred to minimize damage to the surrounding structures and to prevent excessive bleeding during the surgery. This is because the lingual artery is relatively superficial at this level, making it easier to access and ligate.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option B:** Ligation of the lingual artery at the level of the tonsillar fossa is incorrect because it is located too far posteriorly and would require unnecessary dissection of the surrounding tissues.
* **Option C:** Ligation of the lingual artery at the level of the mandible is incorrect because it is located too far inferiorly and would require unnecessary dissection of the submandibular gland and the mylohyoid muscle.
* **Option D:** Ligation of the lingual artery at the origin from the external carotid artery is incorrect because it is located too far proximally and would require unnecessary dissection of the external carotid artery and the surrounding tissues.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember the "3 Hs" of lingual artery ligation: "high" (above the hyoid bone), "horizontal" (at the level of the hyoid bone), and "hemostasis" (to minimize bleeding).
**Correct Answer: C. Ligation of the lingual artery at the level of the mandible.**