The course of the maxillary artery can vary significantly between individuals. While most follow a lateral course relative to the lateral pterygoid muscle, some may have an (found in only about 0.01% of cases). Historically, the term "external maxillary artery" was used for the facial artery , but in modern Terminologia Anatomica , "maxillary artery" refers specifically to this deep vessel. 4. Comparison Across Species

Usually passes superficial (lateral) to the lateral pterygoid muscle in about 79.6% of cases, or deep (medial) to it in approximately 19.9%. This segment primarily supplies the muscles of mastication (masseteric, pterygoid, and deep temporal arteries).

The sphenopalatine branch is often responsible for severe posterior nosebleeds (epistaxis). 3. Anatomical Variations

Understanding the anatomy of the maxillary artery is vital for several medical fields: