The posterior temporal branch of the posterior cerebral artery is one of the branches of the artery located in the outer layer, or cortex, of the brain.
This branch comes off the posterior cerebral artery at the section of the artery that lies nearest the insular cortex, which is located in the deep brain. It then connects to the inferior temporal occipito-temporal cerebral folds of the brain. The posterior temporal branch of the posterior cerebral artery is the branch that arises the furthest away from the main trunk of the artery.
The posterior temporal branch of the posterior cerebral artery is in close proximity to the basilar artery. This makes it more susceptible to injuries. This vulnerability may be an issue during surgical procedures on basilar apex aneurysms, weak and bulging areas of the basilar artery. Extensive experience with brain microsurgical anatomy in this area is needed to prevent surgical complications.