Carotid sinus
Sinus carotidis
- Latin synonym: Sinus caroticus
- Related terms: Carotid sinus (Common carotid artery); Carotid sinus (Internal carotid artery)
Definition
The carotid sinus is a dilated area of the carotid bifurcation and of the base of the internal carotid artery, at the level of the superior border of thyroid cartilage.
The carotid sinus is sensitive to pressure changes in the arterial blood at this level. It is the major baroreception site in humans and most mammals.
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