Zygomatico-orbital foramina

Zygomatico-orbital foramina is a term in anatomy that refers to two small openings located in the orbital surface of the zygomatic bone. These openings are known as the zygomatico-orbital foramina. The term is derived from the Greek words "zygon", which means "yoke", and "orbital", which refers to the eye socket.

Structure

The zygomatico-orbital foramina are two small openings found in the orbital surface of the zygomatic bone. They provide passage for the zygomatico-facial and zygomatico-temporal nerves. The zygomatic bone is one of the bones that make up the human skull. It is situated on the upper and lateral part of the face, forming the prominence of the cheek and part of the outer edge and floor of the orbit.

Function

The primary function of the zygomatico-orbital foramina is to allow the passage of nerves. Specifically, the zygomatico-facial nerve and the zygomatico-temporal nerve pass through these foramina. These nerves are branches of the zygomatic nerve, which is itself a branch of the maxillary nerve. The zygomatic nerve carries sensory information from the skin on the cheek and side of the forehead to the brain.

Clinical significance

Knowledge of the zygomatico-orbital foramina is important in various surgical procedures involving the face and skull. For example, in zygomatic arch fracture repair, surgeons need to be aware of the location of these foramina to avoid damaging the nerves that pass through them. Damage to these nerves can result in sensory loss or pain in the areas of the face supplied by these nerves.

See also

• Zygomatic bone
• Zygomatic nerve
• Maxillary nerve
• Zygomatic arch

References

Zygomatico-orbital foramina Resources
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