The artery typically originates behind the neck of the mandible and passes through the . It is traditionally divided into three distinct segments based on its relationship to the lateral pterygoid muscle :
Enters the pterygopalatine fossa . Its terminal branches supply the upper teeth, palate, and nasal cavity, including the infraorbital and sphenopalatine arteries. 2. Clinical Significance arteria maxillaris
Understanding the anatomy of the maxillary artery is vital for several medical fields: The artery typically originates behind the neck of
Surgeons must be aware of its branches, like the infraorbital artery, during dental implant surgery to avoid excessive bleeding. This segment primarily supplies the muscles of mastication
Usually passes superficial (lateral) to the lateral pterygoid muscle in about 79.6% of cases, or deep (medial) to it in approximately 19.9%. This segment primarily supplies the muscles of mastication (masseteric, pterygoid, and deep temporal arteries).
Located behind the neck of the mandible. Key branches include the middle meningeal artery (which supplies the dura mater) and the inferior alveolar artery (supplying the lower teeth).
In veterinary anatomy, the maxillary artery often serves as a continuation of the external carotid and can contribute to specialized structures like the (a vascular network) in certain animals such as camels, cattle, and sheep.