Retinal artery

Retinal Artery

The retinal artery and its branches.

The retinal artery is a branch of the ophthalmic artery, supplying the retina with oxygen and nutrients. It is a crucial component of the eye's vascular system.

Anatomy

The retinal artery emerges from the optic nerve and extends towards the macula, branching out to supply the inner layers of the retina. It is accompanied by the central retinal vein, which drains the blood from the retina.

Function

The retinal artery's primary function is to supply oxygenated blood to the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. This blood supply is vital for the retina's function, which includes the conversion of light into neural signals that the brain can interpret as visual images.

Clinical significance

Blockage of the retinal artery, known as retinal artery occlusion, can lead to sudden, painless vision loss. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to restore blood flow and prevent permanent vision loss.

See also

• Central retinal vein
• Ophthalmic artery
• Retina
• Retinal artery occlusion