Quick Facts
Origin: Superficial temporal artery.
Course: Pierces temporal fascia to reach the temporalis muscle.
Branches: None.
Supplied Structures: Temporalis muscle.
Related parts of the anatomy
Origin
The middle temporal artery arises from the superficial temporal artery just superior to the zygomatic arch. It is not to be confused with the temporal branch of the medial cerebral artery, which is also known as the middle temporal artery.
Course
The middle temporal artery pierces the temporal fascia and ascends on the squamous part of the temporal bone in the groove for the middle temporal artery, just anterior to the external acoustic meatus.
Branches
There are no named branches, however, occasionally it can give off the zygomaticoorbital artery. Additionally, the middle temporal artery anastomoses with the deep temporal arteries arising from the maxillary artery.
Supplied Structures
The middle temporal artery provides arterial supply to the temporalis muscle.
Learn more about this topic from other Elsevier products
Temporal Artery
A normal temporal artery has been defined as a pulsating, compressible artery with anechoic lumen surrounded by mid-to hyperechoic tissue.
