Infraorbital artery

Infraorbital artery

Infraorbital artery and its branches.

The Infraorbital artery is a branch of the maxillary artery that supplies blood to the lower eyelid, upper lip, and cheek area. It is a significant artery in the facial anatomy and plays a crucial role in the vascular supply of the face.

Anatomy

The infraorbital artery originates from the third part of the maxillary artery in the pterygopalatine fossa. It then ascends in the infraorbital groove, continuing in the infraorbital canal along with the infraorbital nerve. It emerges on the face through the infraorbital foramen.

Branches

The infraorbital artery gives off several branches, including:

• Anterior superior alveolar arteries
• Middle superior alveolar artery
• Inferior palpebral arteries
• Lateral nasal branches
• Superior labial branches

Clinical significance

Knowledge of the infraorbital artery's anatomy is crucial in various surgical procedures, including maxillofacial surgery, plastic surgery, and dental surgery. Damage to this artery can lead to significant bleeding and potential complications.

See also

• Maxillary artery
• Infraorbital nerve
• Facial artery