The Infratemporal Surface Of The Maxilla In Lateral View

Description

Seen in lateral projection, the infratemporal surface of the maxilla lies posterior to the anterior (facial) surface and inferior to the orbit, forming the anterior wall of the infratemporal fossa. The animation tracks along the posterior maxilla to clarify the contour of the maxillary tuberosity and the inferior orbital fissure at the superior margin, then settles on the pterygomaxillary fissure as a vertical cleft between the maxilla (anterior) and the pterygoid process of the sphenoid (posterior). As the camera angle subtly shifts, the viewer appreciates how this surface relates medially to the nasal cavity and laterally toward the zygomatic region and mandibular ramus. Orientation here matters because the infratemporal surface is the bony gateway for key neurovascular pathways. The pterygomaxillary fissure leads into the pterygopalatine fossa, where the maxillary nerve (V2) and terminal maxillary artery branches distribute to the midface and palate, anatomy that underpins regional anesthesia such as the V2 block and helps explain routes of tumor spread or epistaxis-related embolization. Animated movement provides what static plates often miss: a clean sense of depth between the posterior maxilla and the sphenoid, and why the pterygopalatine fossa is clinically “hidden” yet surgically approachable. Use this clip in head and neck anatomy teaching when introducing the infratemporal fossa, pterygopalatine fossa, and their communications, or in dental and OMFS training to support discussions of posterior maxillary injections, third molar region landmarks, and endoscopic access corridors. It also fits radiology or surgical atlas content as a quick spatial primer before CT-based navigation or cadaveric dissection. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.