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Middle temporal artery

The Middle Temporal Artery is a relatively small but clinically significant branch of the superficial temporal artery, itself a terminal branch of the external carotid artery. This artery arises just above the zygomatic arch and supplies the temporalis muscle, as well as contributing to the vascular network of the scalp and temporal region. Its position and relationships make it important both anatomically and in imaging, especially in the assessment of temporal region pathology or trauma.

Synonyms

  • Arteria temporalis media (Latin)

  • Middle temporal branch of superficial temporal artery

Origin and Course

  • Origin:

    • Arises from the superficial temporal artery, just above the zygomatic arch (superior border of the zygomatic bone).

  • Course:

    • Quickly pierces the temporal fascia.

    • Enters the temporalis muscle, running superiorly and posteriorly within the muscle.

    • Forms anastomoses with deep temporal arteries (branches of the maxillary artery).

    • Contributes to the vascular supply of the temporalis muscle and the overlying scalp.

Function

  • Supplies blood to the temporalis muscle.

  • Contributes to the anastomotic vascular network of the temporal region, helping maintain perfusion in the event of injury to one of the contributing arteries.

  • Plays a role in scalp and soft tissue perfusion, especially in the lateral aspect of the temporal region.

MRI Appearance

  • On routine MRI, the middle temporal artery is usually not individually visualized unless specifically targeted with high-resolution angiographic sequences.

  • Appears as a small, tubular structure with flow voids (signal drop-out) on T1- and T2-weighted images due to rapid arterial blood flow.

  • Enhanced visibility on MR angiography, especially with contrast, as a fine vessel in the lateral temporal region.

CT Appearance

  • On non-contrast CT, the artery itself is not easily visualized unless enlarged or calcified.

  • On CT angiography (CTA), it is visible as a thin, enhancing linear structure coursing above the zygomatic arch into the temporalis muscle.

  • Can be identified more clearly in cases of vascular pathology (e.g., trauma, arteritis) or when there is abnormal contrast enhancement.

MRI images

Middle temporal artery MRI 3T sagittal image