The maxillary vein is one of the most important blood arteries in the neck, delivering oxygenated blood to the brain, neck and limbs. It has a length from the lower jaw to the armpit, and its diameter is about 5-6 mm. This vein is one of the main ones in providing oxygen to the tissues of the head and neck.
One of the important functions of the maxillary vein is to maintain the balance of fluid and nutrients in the brain. Thus, its disturbances can lead to problems such as headaches, weakness, dizziness and loss of balance. Other symptoms that usually accompany diseases of this vein include headaches (especially in the morning), sweating, and fatigue.
In the event of injury, disease or surgery to the brain, this vein may become affected and begin to increase in size. This process is called empyema (the presence of purulent inflammation around the veins). This can give rise to infection or subarachnoid hemorrhage, which can lead to the death of the patient. However, these problems usually do not apply to situations related directly to the operation itself.
The most common cause of diseases and injuries to the maxillary vein is injury to the neck and chin. Although such injuries are usually short-lived and painful, they can be very dangerous and even fatal. Neck injuries can cause a vessel to rupture or lacerate, bleed, or become pinched. If such a wound is not treated in time, there is a high probability of infection and complications.