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Accessory meningeal artery: an anatomic misnomer
1Department of Radiology, University of Alabama Hospital, Birmingham 35233.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|May 1, 1989
Summary
The accessory meningeal artery is misnamed; it primarily supplies extracranial structures, not the meninges. Researchers propose renaming it the pterygomeningeal artery based on its anatomical supply.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Vascular Surgery
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- The accessory meningeal artery is traditionally considered a branch supplying the meninges.
- Its name suggests a significant contribution to intracranial blood flow alongside the middle meningeal artery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the nomenclature of the accessory meningeal artery.
- To determine the primary vascular territory supplied by the accessory meningeal artery.
Main Methods:
- Review of anatomical literature and vascular supply data.
- Analysis of blood flow distribution to intracranial and extracranial structures.
Main Results:
- The accessory meningeal artery predominantly (90%) supplies extracranial tissues.
- Only a small fraction (approximately 10%) of its blood flow reaches the intracranial territory.
Conclusions:
- The current name 'accessory meningeal artery' is misleading regarding its vascular territory.
- The proposed name 'arteria pterygomeningica' or 'pterygomeningeal artery' accurately reflects its anatomical supply.