internal auditory; labyrinthine artery

Origin

• basilar artery (just proximal to vertebral artery bifurcation)
• alternatively, may be branch of anterior inferior cerebellar artery

Distribution

• supplies membranous labyrinth of inner ear Enters the labyrinth via internal acoustic meatus.

Pathology

• occlusion (rare) results in central vertigo & deafness in corresponding ear

More general terms

• artery