Harvesting the Middle Temporal Artery for Bypass: Microanatomical Description and Surgical Technique

Background: The middle temporal artery (MTA) is the proximal medial branch of the superficial temporal artery (STA). It mainly irrigates the temporalis muscle along with the deep temporal arteries. Prior literature about its anatomical characteristics is limited. In the clinical setting, it has been occasionally described as a donor in vascularized flaps for reconstructive surgery and otolaryngological procedures.