Step 1: Anatomical Background.
The auriculotemporal nerve is a branch of the posterior division of the mandibular nerve (V3)It typically arises by two roots in the infratemporal fossa
Step 2: Relationship with Vessels.
The two roots of the auriculotemporal nerve encircle the middle meningeal arteryThis artery arises from the maxillary artery and ascends to enter the cranial cavity through the foramen spinosum
Step 3: Clinical Importance.
This close anatomical relationship is important in surgical procedures involving the infratemporal fossaInjury to the middle meningeal artery can cause epidural hematoma
Step 4: Conclusion.
Since the middle meningeal artery passes between the two roots of the auriculotemporal nerve, the correct answer is Middle meningeal artery