Maxillary vein

Vein of the face

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Latin	vena maxillaris

The maxillary vein is a short, thick vein situated in the face. It is formed by the convergence of the veins of the pterygoid plexus, which is located in the infratemporal fossa.

Anatomy

The maxillary vein is a component of the venous system of the head and neck. It is typically formed by the union of veins from the pterygoid plexus, which is a network of veins surrounding the pterygoid muscles and the maxillary artery. The maxillary vein runs posteriorly and joins with the superficial temporal vein to form the retromandibular vein.

Function

The primary function of the maxillary vein is to drain blood from the pterygoid plexus and transport it to the retromandibular vein. This process is crucial for the venous return from the deep structures of the face, including the muscles of mastication, the nasal cavity, and the oral cavity.

Clinical significance

The maxillary vein, due to its location and connections, can be involved in various medical conditions. For instance, infections or thrombosis in the pterygoid plexus can potentially spread to the maxillary vein and further into the retromandibular vein, leading to complications. Additionally, surgical procedures in the region of the infratemporal fossa must take care to avoid damaging the maxillary vein to prevent excessive bleeding.

See also

• Pterygoid plexus
• Retromandibular vein
• Maxillary artery
• Superficial temporal vein
• Infratemporal fossa