Orbital septum

Orbital_septum.png

== Orbital Septum ==

The orbital septum is a membranous sheet that acts as the anterior boundary of the orbit. It extends from the orbital rims to the eyelids and is a crucial structure in the anatomy of the eye and orbit.

Anatomy

The orbital septum is composed of dense connective tissue and is continuous with the periosteum of the bones forming the orbital margins. It is attached to the orbital rim and extends to the tarsal plates of the upper and lower eyelids. The septum serves as a barrier between the orbital fat and the eyelid structures, helping to prevent the spread of infections from the eyelids to the orbit.

Function

The primary function of the orbital septum is to maintain the structural integrity of the eyelids and to protect the orbit from infections and other pathological conditions. It also plays a role in the distribution of orbital fat, which cushions and protects the eye.

Clinical Significance

The orbital septum is an important landmark in various surgical procedures involving the eyelids and orbit. It is often encountered in blepharoplasty, a surgical procedure to correct deformities or disfigurations of the eyelids. Understanding the anatomy of the orbital septum is crucial for surgeons to avoid complications and ensure successful outcomes.

Infections such as orbital cellulitis can spread from the eyelids to the orbit if the orbital septum is breached. Therefore, the integrity of the orbital septum is vital in preventing the spread of infections.

Related Structures

• Periosteum
• Tarsal plates
• Orbital fat
• Eyelids
• Orbit (anatomy)

See Also

• Blepharoplasty
• Orbital cellulitis
• Eye anatomy

References

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