The course of the maxillary artery can vary significantly between individuals. While most follow a lateral course relative to the lateral pterygoid muscle, some may have an (found in only about 0.01% of cases). Historically, the term "external maxillary artery" was used for the facial artery , but in modern Terminologia Anatomica , "maxillary artery" refers specifically to this deep vessel. 4. Comparison Across Species

Understanding the anatomy of the maxillary artery is vital for several medical fields:

Surgeons must be aware of its branches, like the infraorbital artery, during dental implant surgery to avoid excessive bleeding.

It is a "clinically significant" landmark during surgical procedures in the infratemporal fossa due to its proximity to vital nerves and vascular structures.