Meningeal branch of posterior ethmoidal artery

The meningeal branch of the posterior ethmoidal artery is a small arterial branch that arises from the posterior ethmoidal artery, itself a branch of the ophthalmic artery (from the internal carotid artery system). This branch passes through the posterior ethmoidal foramen alongside the posterior ethmoidal nerve and enters the anterior cranial fossa, where it supplies the dura mater overlying the cribriform plate and the anterior portion of the falx cerebri.

Key anatomical features:

• Origin: Arises from the posterior ethmoidal artery, which is a terminal branch of the ophthalmic artery.

• Course: After traversing the posterior ethmoidal canal, it ascends into the anterior cranial fossa through the cribriform plate region.

• Territory of supply: Provides blood supply to the meninges (dura mater) of the anterior cranial fossa, particularly in the region of the cribriform plate and the adjacent falx cerebri. It contributes to the meningeal arterial network alongside branches from the anterior ethmoidal artery and the middle meningeal artery.

• Clinical relevance: This vessel is relatively small but can be a source of bleeding during endoscopic sinus surgery or anterior skull base procedures. It also has potential significance as a feeder vessel in anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistulas or meningiomas in this region.

Relationship to the anterior ethmoidal artery:

The anterior ethmoidal artery also gives off a meningeal branch (often larger and more clinically significant), and together these two meningeal branches from the ethmoidal arteries form an important component of the anterior cranial fossa dural blood supply. The posterior ethmoidal meningeal branch is generally smaller and more variable in its presence compared to its anterior counterpart.