Artery Pterygopalatine

The pterygopalatine artery (lat. a. pterygopalatina) is an artery that is located in the skull and connects the upper jaw with the wing of the sphenoid bone. It is a branch of the internal carotid artery and provides blood supply to the upper jaw, as well as the pterygoid processes and the sphenoid sinus.

The pterygopalatine artery has two branches: anterior and posterior. The anterior branch starts from the internal carotid artery, passes through the pterygopalatine fossa and enters the pterygoid process of the maxilla. The posterior branch starts from the posterior wall of the internal carotid artery, ascends and enters the sphenoid sinus through the pterygoid foramen.

The functions of the pterygopalatine artery include supplying blood to the maxilla and pterygoid processes, as well as the sphenoid sinus, which is important for maintaining the health of teeth and facial bones. In addition, the pterygopalatine artery can be involved in various diseases such as infections, tumors and trauma, which can affect its functioning.

In conclusion, the pterygopalatine artery is an important artery in the skull that supplies blood to important structures of the face and maxilla. Its functions and pathologies require careful study and understanding to ensure the health and well-being of patients.