Pterygopalatine surface
Facies pterygopalatina
- Related terms: Pterygopalatine surface of maxilla
Definition
The pterygopalatine surface of the maxilla is the caudal portion of the maxilla, extending to the maxillary tuberosity.
Together with the perpendicular plate of the palatine bone, it forms the pterygopalatine fossa, which contains important neurovascular structures, including branches of the maxillary nerve and associated vessels.
This surface is also characterized by the presence of foramina and grooves, such as the maxillary foramen, which provides access to the infraorbital canal.
References
Barone R. Anatomie comparée des mammifères domestiques, Tome 1, Ostéologie, 5th edition, Vigot, Paris, 2017.
König HE, Lieibich HG. Veterinary Anatomy of Domestic mammals, 6th edition, Schattauer, Stuttgart, 2014.
Constantinescu GM, Schaller O. Illustrated veterinary anatomical nomenclature, 3rd Edition, Enke Verlag, Stuttgart, 2012.
