Internal Maxillary Artery (Noun)
Meaning
The maxillary artery that supplies deep structure of the face and some of the meninges.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The internal maxillary artery is a major artery that supplies blood to the deep structures of the face, including the nasal cavity and the paranasal sinuses.
- Branches of the internal maxillary artery also supply the dura mater, a protective membrane that covers the brain and the spinal cord.
- The internal maxillary artery originates from the external carotid artery and passes through the parotid gland before entering the pterygopalatine fossa.
- In the pterygopalatine fossa, the internal maxillary artery gives off several branches that supply the nasal cavity, the palate, and the pharynx.
- Damage to the internal maxillary artery can lead to severe bleeding and potentially life-threatening complications, especially if it occurs in the context of facial trauma.