Posterior meningeal artery
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[edit]
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[edit]
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[edit]
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[edit]
References[edit]
Template:Arteries of the head and neck
 | This medical article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding the page. |
