Ophthalmic Artery

The Ophthalmic Artery (pronunciation: op-thal-mic ar-ter-y) is a major blood vessel that originates from the Internal Carotid Artery. It is responsible for supplying blood to the Eye and its surrounding structures.

Etymology

The term "Ophthalmic" is derived from the Greek word "ophthalmos" which means "eye". "Artery" is derived from the Latin word "arteria", meaning a vessel that carries blood from the heart to the body.

Anatomy

The Ophthalmic Artery arises from the Internal Carotid Artery just as it is emerging from the cavernous sinus. It travels forward and medially towards the optic canal, passing over the Optic Nerve to reach the orbit. Here, it gives off several branches to supply the structures of the eye and orbit.

Branches

The Ophthalmic Artery gives off numerous branches, including the Central Retinal Artery, Ciliary Arteries, Lacrimal Artery, and Ethmoidal Arteries. Each of these branches has a specific role in supplying blood to different parts of the eye and its associated structures.

Clinical Significance

The Ophthalmic Artery is of clinical importance in conditions such as Ischemic Optic Neuropathy, where there is insufficient blood supply to the optic nerve, and Retinal Artery Occlusion, where there is blockage of the retinal arteries. Both conditions can lead to vision loss if not promptly treated.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Ophthalmic Artery
Wikipedia's article - Ophthalmic Artery

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Ophthalmic Artery