Palatine artery

Palatine Artery

The palatine artery and its branches. (Source: Gray's Anatomy)

The Palatine Artery is a branch of the Maxillary Artery that supplies blood to the hard palate and soft palate. It is divided into two main branches: the Greater Palatine Artery and the Lesser Palatine Artery.

Anatomy

The Palatine Artery originates from the third part of the Maxillary Artery in the Pterygopalatine Fossa. It descends through the Greater Palatine Canal to reach the palate.

Greater Palatine Artery

The Greater Palatine Artery is the larger of the two branches. It descends through the Greater Palatine Canal, supplying the hard palate and the gums. It also sends a branch to the nasal septum.

Lesser Palatine Artery

The Lesser Palatine Artery is smaller and supplies the soft palate and the tonsils. It descends through the Lesser Palatine Canal.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the Palatine Artery can result in significant bleeding due to its rich blood supply to the palate. This is particularly relevant in surgical procedures involving the palate or tonsils.

See Also

• Maxillary Artery
• Greater Palatine Canal
• Lesser Palatine Canal
• Hard Palate
• Soft Palate