Anatomical Structure And Location Of The Infratemporal Surface Of The Maxilla

Description

Maxilla anatomy is centered on the infratemporal surface, the posterior aspect of the maxillary body that faces the infratemporal fossa and sits immediately posterior to the zygomatic process. From a posterolateral perspective, the rough maxillary tuberosity occupies the inferior portion near the posterior alveolar region, while the superior portion approaches the posterior wall of the maxillary sinus. Small posterior superior alveolar foramina are typically visible on this surface, transmitting the posterior superior alveolar nerves and vessels as they course laterally toward the maxillary molars. Orientation is unambiguous. Lateral lies toward the zygomatic bone, medial toward the pterygomaxillary fissure and the adjacent pterygoid process of the sphenoid. Understanding this surface matters because it forms the anterior boundary of the infratemporal fossa and helps define the pterygomaxillary fissure, a key gateway between the infratemporal and pterygopalatine fossae where the maxillary artery and branches traverse in close surgical proximity. Dental extraction of maxillary third molars can fracture the maxillary tuberosity, and the relationship of the tuberosity to the posterior maxillary sinus wall explains why oroantral communication and posterior sinus wall injury are clinical concerns. The surface texture and foraminal detail also support teaching of posterior superior alveolar nerve blocks, where needle trajectory and depth depend on appreciating the posterior maxilla rather than the buccal alveolar plate. Oral and maxillofacial surgery atlases, dental anatomy curricula, and head and neck gross anatomy labs can use this illustration to label the maxillary tuberosity, posterior superior alveolar foramina, and boundaries with the infratemporal and pterygopalatine fossae in a single frame. It also fits well in publications on maxillary sinus surgery, Le Fort fracture patterns involving the posterior maxillary wall, and pathways of odontogenic infection into deep facial spaces. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.