Lateral palpebral arteries

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Lateral palpebral arteries

The lateral palpebral arteries are small blood vessels that supply blood to the eyelids. They are branches of the lacrimal artery, which itself is a branch of the ophthalmic artery. The lateral palpebral arteries are responsible for providing oxygenated blood to the lateral parts of the upper and lower eyelids.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The lateral palpebral arteries arise from the lacrimal artery near the lateral canthus of the eye. They then divide into two branches: the superior lateral palpebral artery and the inferior lateral palpebral artery. These arteries run along the edges of the upper and lower eyelids, respectively, and anastomose with the medial palpebral arteries, which are branches of the ophthalmic artery.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the lateral palpebral arteries is to supply blood to the tissues of the eyelids, including the orbicularis oculi muscle, the tarsal plates, and the conjunctiva. This blood supply is crucial for maintaining the health and function of the eyelids, which play a vital role in protecting the eye and maintaining proper tear film distribution.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Damage or obstruction of the lateral palpebral arteries can lead to compromised blood flow to the eyelids, potentially resulting in conditions such as ischemia or necrosis of the eyelid tissues. Surgical procedures involving the eyelids, such as blepharoplasty, must take care to preserve these arteries to avoid complications.