An anterior nosebleed (epistaxis) typically stops by itself. Posterior nosebleeds are more difficult to control. If more conservative measures fail, the bleed may be surgically stopped by entering the pterygopalatine fossa via the maxillary sinus and tying off the inner division of the maxillary artery, or by catherization/embolization of the sphenopalatine and descending palatine arteries. During this surgery, ligation of the anterior ethmoidal artery also recommended because it forms anastomoses with these and other branches supplying blood to the nose.

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