Which of the following is NOT a terminal branch of the ophthalmic artery?

The correct choice indicates that the maxillary artery is not a terminal branch of the ophthalmic artery. The ophthalmic artery primarily supplies the orbit and its structures and has several terminal branches, which include the frontal artery, nasal artery, and supraorbital artery.

The ocular supply from the ophthalmic artery is essential for various functions, and understanding the branches that stem from it is crucial for vascular assessment and surgical planning. The frontal artery, which branches off from the ophthalmic artery, plays a key role in supplying the forehead and scalp. Similarly, the nasal artery provides blood to the nasal structures, while the supraorbital artery supplies the forehead and scalp.

In contrast, the maxillary artery is a separate major branch of the external carotid artery and is responsible for supplying deep structures of the face and portions of the maxilla. It does not arise from the ophthalmic artery, thus categorizing it correctly as a non-terminal branch of the ophthalmic artery.