Middle temporal artery

Middle Temporal Artery

Diagram of the arteries of the face and scalp, showing the middle temporal artery.

The middle temporal artery is a small artery located in the temporal region of the head. It is a branch of the superficial temporal artery, which is itself a terminal branch of the external carotid artery.

Anatomy

The middle temporal artery arises from the superficial temporal artery, which is one of the two terminal branches of the external carotid artery. The superficial temporal artery ascends over the zygomatic arch and divides into several branches, one of which is the middle temporal artery.

The middle temporal artery travels superiorly and posteriorly, passing over the temporalis muscle. It supplies blood to the temporalis muscle and the overlying scalp.

Function

The primary function of the middle temporal artery is to supply oxygenated blood to the temporalis muscle, which is involved in the movement of the mandible during mastication. Additionally, it provides blood to the scalp in the temporal region.

Clinical Significance

The middle temporal artery can be involved in certain medical conditions, such as temporal arteritis, which is an inflammation of the temporal arteries that can lead to headaches, scalp tenderness, and even vision problems if not treated promptly.

In surgical procedures involving the temporal region, care must be taken to avoid damaging the middle temporal artery to prevent excessive bleeding and ensure adequate blood supply to the temporalis muscle and scalp.

Related Pages

• Superficial temporal artery
• External carotid artery
• Temporalis muscle
• Temporal arteritis