Orbital fissure

Orbital fissure is a term used in anatomy to refer to two distinct fissures, or gaps, located in the orbit (eye socket) of the skull. These are the superior orbital fissure and the inferior orbital fissure. Both of these fissures serve as passageways for nerves and blood vessels that supply the structures within the orbit.

Superior Orbital Fissure

The superior orbital fissure is a gap located between the lesser and greater wings of the sphenoid bone. It allows for the passage of several important structures, including the oculomotor nerve, the trochlear nerve, the abducens nerve, and the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve. These nerves control various functions of the eye and the surrounding muscles.

Inferior Orbital Fissure

The inferior orbital fissure is a gap located between the maxilla and the greater wing of the sphenoid bone. It allows for the passage of the infraorbital nerve, the zygomatic nerve, and blood vessels that supply the orbit.

Clinical Significance

Due to their role as passageways for nerves and blood vessels, the orbital fissures are clinically significant in several conditions. For example, fractures involving the orbital fissures can lead to orbital trauma, which can cause vision loss and other complications. In addition, inflammation or tumors in the orbit can compress the structures passing through the orbital fissures, leading to various symptoms such as double vision, numbness, and pain.

See Also

• Orbit (anatomy)
• Sphenoid bone
• Maxilla
• Oculomotor nerve
• Trochlear nerve
• Abducens nerve
• Trigeminal nerve
• Orbital trauma