The deep auricular artery is a branch of the maxillary artery. The deep auricular artery pierces the external acoustic meatus. It provides arterial supply to the skin of the external acoustic meatus, and contributes arterial supply to the tympanic membrane, and (via a branch) the temporomandibular joint.

Anatomy

Origin

It is a branch of the (mandibular part of) the maxillary artery. It often arises in common with the anterior tympanic artery.

Course

It**** ascends ******** in the substance of the parotid gland, behind the temporomandibular articulation, and pierces the cartilaginous or bony wall of the external acoustic meatus to course between the cartilage and bone. ****

Distribution

It supplies its cuticular lining and the outer surface of the tympanic membrane. It gives a branch to the temporomandibular joint.