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 :
It is a "clinically significant" landmark during surgical procedures in the infratemporal fossa due to its proximity to vital nerves and vascular structures.
Surgeons must be aware of its branches, like the infraorbital artery, during dental implant surgery to avoid excessive bleeding. arteria maxillaris
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.
The sphenopalatine branch is often responsible for severe posterior nosebleeds (epistaxis). 3. Anatomical Variations The artery typically originates behind the neck of
Enters the pterygopalatine fossa . Its terminal branches supply the upper teeth, palate, and nasal cavity, including the infraorbital and sphenopalatine arteries. 2. Clinical Significance
The course of the maxillary artery can vary significantly between individuals. While most follow a lateral course relative to the lateral pterygoid muscle, some may have an (found in only about 0.01% of cases). Historically, the term "external maxillary artery" was used for the facial artery , but in modern Terminologia Anatomica , "maxillary artery" refers specifically to this deep vessel. 4. Comparison Across Species In veterinary anatomy, the maxillary artery often serves
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).