Exploring the Distinct Branches of the Maxillary Artery- A Comprehensive Overview
What are the branches of the maxillary artery?
The maxillary artery is a major blood vessel that originates from the external carotid artery, which is one of the two main arteries supplying blood to the head and neck. It plays a crucial role in providing oxygenated blood to various structures in the region, including the face, orbit, and maxilla. Understanding the branches of the maxillary artery is essential for medical professionals, as it helps in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting this area. In this article, we will explore the different branches of the maxillary artery and their functions.
The maxillary artery has several branches, which can be categorized into three main groups: terminal branches, muscular branches, and meningeal branches.
Terminal branches
The terminal branches of the maxillary artery are responsible for supplying blood to the face and the orbit. These branches include:
1.
Orbital artery
The orbital artery is the largest branch of the maxillary artery. It travels through the orbital fissure and supplies blood to the orbit, including the muscles of the eye, the lacrimal gland, and the tear ducts.
2.
Maxillary artery
The maxillary artery is the second largest branch and supplies blood to the maxilla, including the teeth, gums, and the mucous membranes of the oral cavity.
3.
Palatine artery
The palatine artery is a small branch that supplies blood to the hard and soft palates, as well as the nasopharynx.
4.
Infraorbital artery
The infraorbital artery is responsible for supplying blood to the lower face, including the skin and muscles of the cheek, the upper lip, and the lower teeth.
5.
Supraorbital artery
The supraorbital artery supplies blood to the skin and muscles of the forehead, as well as the upper eyelid.
6.
Supratrochlear artery
The supratrochlear artery is a small branch that supplies blood to the skin of the forehead and the upper eyelid.
Muscular branches
The muscular branches of the maxillary artery supply blood to the muscles of the face and the neck. These branches include:
1.
Arteria pterygoidea superficialis
This branch supplies blood to the masseter muscle, which is responsible for chewing.
2.
Arteria pterygoidea profunda
The deep branch of the pterygoid artery supplies blood to the pterygoid muscles, which help in moving the jaw.
3.
Arteria maxillaris profunda
The deep maxillary artery supplies blood to the pterygoid muscles and the buccinator muscle, which helps in blowing air out of the mouth.
Meningeal branches
The meningeal branches of the maxillary artery supply blood to the dura mater, which is the outermost layer of the meninges. These branches include:
1.
Arteria ophthalmica
The ophthalmic artery supplies blood to the dura mater surrounding the orbit.
2.
Arteria lacrimalis
The lacrimal artery supplies blood to the dura mater surrounding the lacrimal gland.
3.
Arteria pterygoidea interna
The internal pterygoid artery supplies blood to the dura mater surrounding the pterygoid muscles.
In conclusion, the maxillary artery is a complex blood vessel with various branches that play a vital role in supplying oxygenated blood to the head and neck region. Understanding the branches and their functions is crucial for medical professionals in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting this area.