MIDDLE MENINGEAL ARTERY Meaning and
Definition
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The middle meningeal artery is a major blood vessel located within the cranium that provides significant blood supply to the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This artery is one of the three branches of the maxillary artery, a major branch of the external carotid artery, which is responsible for supplying blood to various structures within the head and neck region.
The middle meningeal artery specifically arises from the maxillary artery and enters the cranium through the foramen spinosum, a small hole in the base of the skull. Once inside the cranial cavity, it courses along the inner surface of the skull within the meningeal layer, the outermost layer of the meninges.
The primary function of the middle meningeal artery is to provide oxygenated blood to the meninges, including the dura mater, which is the thickest and outermost layer of the meninges enveloping the brain. The rich blood supply from this artery nourishes the meninges and also forms an extensive network of smaller blood vessels that subsequently supply the bones of the skull, nearby tissues, and structures.
In addition to its vital role in promoting blood circulation, the middle meningeal artery can also be of clinical significance. Trauma or injury to the artery can lead to bleeding within the skull, causing a potentially life-threatening condition called an epidural hematoma. Furthermore, certain diseases or vascular abnormalities involving the middle meningeal artery may contribute to neurosurgical complications, requiring medical intervention and treatment to prevent significant damage or complications to the brain and its surrounding structures.
Common Misspellings for MIDDLE MENINGEAL ARTERY
- niddle meningeal artery
- kiddle meningeal artery
- jiddle meningeal artery
- muddle meningeal artery
- mjddle meningeal artery
- mkddle meningeal artery
- moddle meningeal artery
- m9ddle meningeal artery
- m8ddle meningeal artery
- misdle meningeal artery
- mixdle meningeal artery
- micdle meningeal artery
- mifdle meningeal artery
- mirdle meningeal artery
- miedle meningeal artery
- midsle meningeal artery
- midxle meningeal artery
- midcle meningeal artery
- midfle meningeal artery
Similar spelling word for MIDDLE MENINGEAL ARTERY
- Meningeal artery, middle.
