Artery of the pterygoid canal

Artery of the Pterygoid Canal (also known as Vidian artery) is a small artery that arises from the internal carotid artery or its cavernous part. It travels through the pterygoid canal along with the nerve of the pterygoid canal and supplies the pterygoid muscles and the sphenoid sinus.

Etymology

The term "Vidian artery" is named after Guido Guidi, a 16th-century Italian anatomist who was also known by the Latin name Vidus Vidius. The term "pterygoid" is derived from the Greek words "pteryx" and "eidos", meaning "wing" and "form" respectively. This is in reference to the wing-like shape of the pterygoid process, where the artery is located.

Anatomy

The artery of the pterygoid canal originates from the internal carotid artery or its cavernous part. It travels through the pterygoid canal, a narrow passage in the skull, along with the nerve of the pterygoid canal. The artery supplies blood to the pterygoid muscles, which are involved in chewing, and the sphenoid sinus, a space within the bones of the skull.

Clinical significance

The artery of the pterygoid canal is a small artery, but it can be involved in certain medical conditions. For example, it can be damaged during surgical procedures involving the skull base or the paranasal sinuses. This can lead to bleeding, which can be difficult to control due to the artery's location.

Related terms

• Internal carotid artery: The artery from which the artery of the pterygoid canal originates.
• Pterygoid muscles: The muscles that are supplied by the artery of the pterygoid canal.
• Sphenoid sinus: A space within the bones of the skull that is supplied by the artery of the pterygoid canal.

Artery of the pterygoid canal Resources
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