Bones of the orbit

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The orbits are two bony cavities located in the upper half of the facial skeleton on either side of the root of the nose. They form sockets that hold and protect the eyeballs and their associated structures. These structures include the optic nerve, extraocular muscles, the lacrimal apparatus, fascia and neurovasculature that supply them, as well as orbital fat within which these structures are embedded.

The walls of each orbit are formed of seven bones which are the frontal, maxilla, zygomatic, sphenoid, palatine, lacrimal and ethmoid bones. The bony walls of the orbit contain several fissures and foramina, which allow for the passage of neurovascular structures. Additionally, the orbital bones contain crests, ridges and tubercles that serve as surfaces of attachment for orbital structures, as well as fossae for structures such as the lacrimal gland and the lacrimal sac.

This video will help you learn about the bones of the orbit.

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Summary