The masseteric artery is a branch of the maxillary artery in the infratemporal fossa that passes laterally through the mandibular notch (sigmoid notch) to supply the deep surface of the masseter muscle. It accompanies the masseteric nerve from V3. It provides the dominant vascular supply to the posterior and deep masseter, supplemented by facial artery branches to the superficial masseter.
The masseteric artery is relevant in masseter muscle surgery and in temporomandibular joint approaches. In masseter myotomy for masseteric hypertrophy (bruxism-related masseter enlargement), the masseteric artery is at risk as it enters the deep masseter through the mandibular notch. In the transmasseteric anteroplegic approach to the condylar head for TMJ fracture fixation, the masseteric vessels must be identified and protected within the masseter substance. The masseteric artery provides collateral perfusion to the mandibular ramus in cases of condylar fracture with disrupted inferior alveolar circulation.
The transmasseteric anteroplegic approach to the mandibular condyle for condylar fracture fixation traverses the masseter, placing the masseteric artery at risk as it enters the muscle through the mandibular notch; identifying and retracting the vessel before splitting the masseter fibers prevents post-operative haematoma.
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