Orbital plate

Orbital Plate

The Orbital Plate is a significant anatomical structure found in the human skull. It is a part of the ethmoid bone and the frontal bone, and plays a crucial role in forming the orbit, which houses the eye and its associated structures.

Anatomy

The orbital plate is composed of two parts: the ethmoidal labyrinth and the frontal process. The ethmoidal labyrinth is a complex structure that contains numerous air cells, while the frontal process is a thin, flat bone that extends upward to the frontal bone.

The orbital plate of the ethmoid bone, also known as the lamina papyracea, is particularly thin and delicate. It forms the medial wall of the orbit and is susceptible to damage, particularly in cases of sinusitis or trauma to the face.

The orbital plate of the frontal bone forms the roof of the orbit. It is thicker and more robust than the ethmoidal component, providing protection to the eye from injuries that may come from above.

Clinical Significance

Due to its delicate nature, the orbital plate, particularly the lamina papyracea, is often involved in injuries and diseases. Fractures of the orbital plate can lead to orbital blowout fractures, a condition that can cause diplopia, enophthalmos, and infraorbital nerve damage.

Infections such as sinusitis can spread to the orbit through the thin lamina papyracea, leading to orbital cellulitis, a serious condition that can cause vision loss if not treated promptly.

See Also

• Human skull
• Orbit (anatomy)
• Ethmoid bone
• Frontal bone