Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
The maxillary vein is a large blood vessel in the face that collects venous blood from the maxillary area and drains into the retromandibular vein. It plays a crucial role in the venous drainage of the deep facial structures.
Venous Drainage: The process by which blood is returned from various parts of the body back to the heart through veins.
Retromandibular Vein: A vein that is formed by the union of the superficial temporal vein and maxillary vein, playing a key role in draining blood from parts of the face and neck.
Maxillary Area: Refers to the region in humans that encompasses the upper jaw and its associated structures, including teeth and soft tissues