This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: Head and neck, Subject name: Anatomy
All the following are anterior branches of the external carotid aery except 
Select and explain. 
A. Superior thyroid, B. Lingual, C. Facial, D. Ascending pharyngeal
D: Ascending pharyngeal
Answer: D: Ascending pharyngeal 
Explanation: The external carotid aery gives off eight branches, which are grouped as followsAnteriorPosteriorMedialTerminal1. Superior thyroid2. Lingual3. Facial1. Occipital2. Posterior auricular1. Ascendingpharyngeal1. Maxillary2. SuperficialtemporalRef: Chaurasia; Volume 3; 6th edition; Page no: 136