Maxillary division of Trigeminal nerve (V2 or Vb) / Maxillary nerve - Anatomy Animation
Maxillary Nerve: Anatomy and Function
Overview of the Maxillary Nerve
- The maxillary nerve is the second division of the trigeminal nerve and is purely sensory. It originates from the anterior convexity of the trigeminal ganglion.
- It exits the middle cranial fossa via the foramen rotundum, reaching the pterygopalatine fossa before entering the orbit through the inferior orbital fissure.
Pathway and Branches
- The infraorbital nerve, a continuation of the maxillary nerve, runs forward along the floor of the orbit in an infraorbital groove and emerges on the face through the infraorbital foramen.
- The maxillary nerve traverses four regions: middle cranial fossa, pterygopalatine fossa, orbit, and face. Notably, it has connections to important structures like ganglia in these areas.
Branches and Distribution
- In its course through various regions, it gives off several branches:
- Meningeal branch supplying dura mater in middle cranial fossa.
- Ganglionic branches connecting to pterygopalatine ganglion.
Specific Nerve Branches
- Zygomatic nerve enters orbit and divides into:
- Temporal branch supplying skin over temple.
- Facial branch supplying skin on face.
- Posterior superior alveolar nerve supplies mucous membrane of maxillary air sinus and forms superior dental plexus for molar teeth supply.
Dental Supply Details
- Middle superior alveolar nerve travels along lateral wall of maxillary sinus to join superior dental plexus for premolar teeth supply.