Posterior meningeal artery

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Latin	arteria meningea posterior

The posterior meningeal artery is a small artery that supplies the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It is a branch of the ascending pharyngeal artery, which itself is a branch of the external carotid artery.

Anatomy

The posterior meningeal artery arises from the ascending pharyngeal artery, which is one of the branches of the external carotid artery. It ascends through the foramen magnum to enter the cranial cavity, where it supplies the dura mater of the posterior cranial fossa.

Function

The primary function of the posterior meningeal artery is to provide blood supply to the meninges, particularly the dura mater in the posterior cranial fossa. This is crucial for maintaining the health and function of the central nervous system.

Clinical significance

Injuries or abnormalities in the posterior meningeal artery can lead to various medical conditions. For instance, a rupture of this artery can result in an epidural hematoma, which is a type of traumatic brain injury. Additionally, it can be involved in certain types of meningiomas, which are tumors that arise from the meninges.

See also

• Meningeal arteries
• Ascending pharyngeal artery
• External carotid artery
• Dura mater
• Foramen magnum