Microsurgical anatomy of the ophthalmic artery

Abstract

Objective To provide some microsurgical anatomy for operations related to the ophthalmic artery. Methods We examined twenty adult cadaveric heads under ×5 to 25 magnification. The microsurgical anatomy of the origin,course and branches of the ophthalmic artery was studied. Results 90% ophthalmic artery originated from the supraclinoid segment of the internal carotid artery (ICA),most of them arose from the medial third of the superior surface of the ICA. 5% ophthalmic artery originated from the cavernous segment of ICA. 5% ophthalmic artery originated from the middle meningeal artery. The ophthalmic artery was divided into three segments (intracranial,intracanal and intraorbital segment). According to the relation to the optic nerve,the intraorbital course of the ophthalmic artery was divided into three parts. The main branches of ophthalmic artery included central retinal artery,posterior ciliary artery,lacrimal artery,posterior and anterior ethmoidal arteries. Conclusion The ophthalmic artery can be protected in operation if we are familiar with the microsurgical anatomy of the origin,course and branches of the ophthalmic artery.