The spelling of "arteria maxillaris externa" can seem overwhelming at first glance. However, by breaking it down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription, it becomes much easier to understand. "Arteria" (aɹˈtɛɹiə) means artery, "maxillaris" (mæksɪˈlæɹɪs) refers to the maxilla bone in the jaw, and "externa" (ɛkˈstɜːnə) means external. Thus, "arteria maxillaris externa" is simply the external artery that supplies blood to the maxilla bone. Understanding the spelling of medical terms can make communication between healthcare professions more efficient and effective.
The "arteria maxillaris externa," also known as the external maxillary artery, is a significant blood vessel in the human body that supplies blood to various structures and tissues of the face. It is a branch of the external carotid artery, which is one of the major arteries of the head and neck region.
This artery originates from the upper part of the external carotid artery in close proximity to the neck and ascends towards the face, following a curved path around the lower jawbone known as the mandible. As it courses upwards, it provides several branches to nourish different structures in the face, including muscles, skin, and glands.
The arteries arising from the arteria maxillaris externa usually include the deep auricular artery, anterior tympanic artery, middle meningeal artery, accessory meningeal artery, inferior alveolar artery, and masseteric artery. These branches supply blood to areas such as the temples, the ear, the meninges (membranes surrounding the brain), the mandibular teeth and gums, and the muscles involved in chewing.
Overall, the arteria maxillaris externa plays a crucial role in delivering oxygenated blood to a wide range of structures within the face. Its branches provide the necessary nutrients and oxygen for the proper functioning and maintenance of facial muscles, skin, bones, and other associated tissues.
Facial artery; origin, external carotid; branches, palatina ascendens, tonsillar and submaxillary rami, submentalis, labialis inferior, labialis superior, masseteric, buccal, and lateral nasal rami, and angularis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.