The Open Anatomy Journal
2010, 2 : 5-24Published online 2010 January 16. DOI: 10.2174/1877609401002010005
Publisher ID: TOANATJ-2-5
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Dissection of the Eyelid and Orbit with Modernised Anatomical Findings
2 Singapore National Eye Centre, 11 Third Hospital Avenue, 168751, Singapore
3 Department of Anatomy, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Aichi 480-1195, Japan
4 South Australian Institute of Ophthalmology and Discipline of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
5 Division of Oculoplastic and Orbital Surgery, Department of Ophthalmology, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
* Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Ophthalmology, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Aichi 480-1195, Japan, Tel: +81-561-62-3311, Ext. 2181; Fax: +81-561-63-7255; E-mail: cosme@d1.dion.ne.jp
ABSTRACT
Sufficient knowledge of eyelid and orbit anatomy is essential for achieving optimal functional and cosmetic results in ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery. Utilizing the surgical techniques used in vivo can result in difficulties in correct exposure and identification of structures in cadavers. Therefore, special techniques are required to perform appropriate post-mortem anatomical dissections of the eyelid and orbit. In addition, as the number of cadavers for teaching and dissections is very limited, systematic anatomical dissections will maximize their efficient utilization. Here, we present detailed techniques of eyelid and orbital dissections with modernized anatomical findings for anatomists as well as ophthalmologists, focusing on preparation for dissection, dissection of the upper and lower eyelids, handling of the conjunctival fornix, the medial and lateral canthi, and identification of extraocular muscle insertions.