Pterygopalatine Canal

The pterygopalatine canal (canalis pterygopalatinus) is a narrow gap connecting the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone with the body of the upper jaw, in which the pterygopalatine artery, pterygopalatine venous plexus and pterygopalatine nerve pass.

The pterygopalatine canal is important for the functioning of the organs of the head and neck, especially the teeth and nasal mucosa. It provides blood supply and innervation to these structures, and also participates in the regulation of the secretion of mucous glands.

In addition, the pterygopalatine canal plays an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the teeth, nose and paranasal sinuses. For example, if the maxillary nerve passing through the pterygopalatine canal is inflamed or damaged, numbness or pain in the facial area may occur. In such cases, surgery may be required to restore normal nerve function.

Also, the pterygopalatine canal can be damaged during dental operations, for example, during tooth extraction or implantation. This can lead to disruption of blood supply and tissue innervation, which can cause complications and require additional treatment.

Thus, the pterygopalatine canal is an important anatomical formation that plays a key role in the functioning of the organs of the head and neck. Its violation can lead to serious consequences, so it is important to understand its features and take them into account when performing dental and other surgical interventions.