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Optic canal
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The optic canal is a round opening located in the posteromedial part of the orbit, within the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone, when viewing the orbit from an anterior perspective. It lies just medial to the larger superior orbital fissure, and serves as a conduit connecting the orbit to the middle cranial fossa.
This canal transmits two main structures: optic nerve (CN II) and ophthalmic artery. The optic nerve (CN II) carries visual information from the retina to the brain for processing while the ophthalmic artery, a branch of the internal carotid artery, enters the orbit to supply all its structures.
The optic canal, along with the superior orbital fissure form the apex of the pyramidal-shaped orbit. This area is encircled by a fibrous cuff known as the common tendinous ring which serves as the origin for the four recti extraocular muscles.
| Terminology |
English: Optic canal Synonym: Optic foramen Latin: Canalis opticus Synonyms: Canalis fasciculi optici, Foramen opticum |
| Definition | Opening in the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone that connects the orbit to the middle cranial fossa |
| Function | Transmits the optic nerve (CN II) and ophthalmic artery |
Learn more about the optic canal and the anatomy of the orbit in the following study unit:
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