Anterior Lacrimal Crest Research Articles

Lacrimal Sac, Classified within the Orbital Tissue

ABSTRACT Purpose To disclose that the lacrimal sac is classified within the orbital tissue. Materials and Methods Ten orbits of 9 Japanese cadavers aged 64 to 85 years at death were included. The attachment site of the orbital septum in the medial canthal area was grossly dissected. The relationship between the orbital septum attachment site and the location of the lacrimal sac was examined. Results In the upper region, the orbital septum was attached to the most superior area of the lacrimal fossa and the medial canthal tendon. In the lower region, the septum was attached to the anterior lacrimal crest and the medial canthal tendon. In both the upper and lower regions, none of the septa attached to the posterior lacrimal crest. The lacrimal sac was situated behind the orbital septum. Conclusion The lacrimal sac, which is situated behind the orbital septum, is classified within the orbital tissue.

Lacrimal Sac Characteristics in Patients With Punctal and Canalicular Agenesis: Punctum Update (PUP) Study-Paper 3.

To explore the endoscopic and histopathologic characteristics of the lacrimal sac (LS) and the nasolacrimal duct in cases with punctal agenesis presenting with LS swellings. This is a prospective, interventional study of 13 LSs of 8 patients presenting with punctal agenesis and LS swellings over a 5-year study period (June 2018-July 2023). Complete ophthalmic examination was performed along with CT scans of the orbits. The LS was exposed with an anterior lacrimal crest incision and explored. The exterior and interior of the sac swelling were examined and LS flaps were sent for histopathological analysis. The mean age of the patients was 23 years with a male:female ratio of 5:3. All patients presented with swelling in the LS region. Occasional epiphora was the presenting feature in 6 patients. All patients had both upper and lower punctal agenesis on the affected side with associated LS swelling. CT scans showed a hypodense cystic swelling with expansion of the LS fossa and bony nasolacrimal duct ending abruptly short of the inferior meatus. Intraoperatively, the LS had thin, translucent walls with mucoid secretion and an absence of common canalicular opening. Histopathological analysis showed epithelium consistent with LS with less robust development of the sac walls and poorly structured lacrimal drainage-associated lymphoid tissue with scanty stromal inflammation. The development of LS and the nasolacrimal duct is structurally affected in patients with punctal agenesis. Retrograde approaches for epiphora resolution are not logical in such cases but conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy with Jones tube can be a feasible option.

Morphometry of the Bony Orbit and Periorbital Structures: Personal Perspectives From Decades of Related Research.

The author introduces his personal perspectives on the bony orbit, nerves, arteries, and ligaments relating to orbital re- construction surgery. A supraorbital fissure was 40.0 ± 2.5 mm from the supraorbital notch. Posterior ethmoidal foramen was 31.7 ± 3.0 mm from the anterior lacrimal crest. The infraorbital fissure, where the infraorbital groove started, was 26.4 ± 2.6 mm from the infraorbital foramen. The supraorbital fissure was 34.3 ± 2.7 mm from the frontozygomatic suture. The medial palpebral ligament consisted of 2 layers. The superficial layer of the palpebral ligament (SMPL) was from the anterior lacrimal crest to the upper and lower tarsal plates. The deep layer of the palpebral ligament (DMPL) lay from the anterior lacrimal crest to the posterior lacrimal crest, covering the lacrimal sac. Horner muscle was at the posterior lacrimal crest just lateral to the attachment of the DLPL and ran laterally to the tarsal plate deep to the SLPL. Three components of the lateral canthal area are: (1) lateral palpebral raphe, (2) superficial lateral palpebral ligament (SLPL), and (3) deep lateral palpebral ligament (DLPL). The lateral ends of superior and inferior orbicularis oculi muscles interlaced at the lateral commissure and formed the lateral palpebral raphe. The superficial lateral palpebral ligament extended from the lateral ends of the tarsal plate to the periosteum of the lateral orbital rim. The lateral palpebral ligament extended from the lateral ends of the tarsal plate deep to the origin of SLPL to the Whitnall tu- bercle on the zygomatic bone. The palpebral branch of the in- fraorbital artery emerged from the infraorbital foramen and ran superior and lateral to the orbital septum. After passing through the orbital septum, distributed to the orbital fat.

Malposition of the Resorbable Sheet in Medial Orbital Wall Fractures: Frequency and Techniques for Prevention.

The aim of this report is to discuss malposition of the resorbable sheet in medial orbital wall fractures and how to prevent this problem. After making an incision through the skin and orbicularis oculi muscle, a skin-muscle flap was elevated just superficial to the orbital septum, extending to the arcus marginalis. Dissection was extended just below the anterior lacrimal crest to increase the exposure. Fracture site in medial orbital wall was visualized. A resorbable sheet (poly- l -lactide, d -lactide sheet, 0.5-mm thickness) was trimmed and molded in an L shape, with the vertical portion used to cover the medial wall defect and the horizontal portion for stability in the orbital floor. An extended part, measuring roughly 1cm, was bent across on the infraorbital rim, and this part was fixed with absorbable screws to prevent the sheet from crumpling. After the molded plate was put in position, the periosteum and skin were closed. From 2011 to 2021, the authors operated on 152 orbital floor or medial wall fractures. Among 152 patients who underwent surgery to reconstruct orbital floor or medial wall fracture, of whom 27 patients had both floor and medial wall fractures, the authors experienced 2 cases of medial orbital wall fractures where the resorbable sheet was malpositioned, requiring reoperation. To prevent malposition of the sheet in medial wall reconstruction, the inferomedial angle of the vertical portion and the horizontal portion of the sheet should be about 135°. Before fixing the sheet on the bony part, a complete tension-free forced-duction test is mandatory.

Morphometric Study of Different Orbital Dimensions in Dry Skull in Eastern India- A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Existing data regarding the relative position of the various bony landmarks of the orbit suggest that the position of these landmarks may vary depending on the racial population studied. The present study will provide useful baseline orbital morphometric data in Eastern Indian population. Aim: To study the morphometric data of the different orbital dimensions, fissures and foramens of dry skulls in Eastern Indian region. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was done in the department of Anatomy, of a Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research, Kolkata, West Bengal, India from January 2016 to June 2020. Total 101 adult dry skulls (71 male and 30 female) collected from the departments of Anatomy of four medical colleges were included in the study. Orbital height, breadth, index, distance between Supraorbital Notch/foramen (SON) to Superior Orbital Fissure distance (SOF), the Anterior Lacrimal Crest (ALC) to Posterior Lacrimal Crest (PLC), ALC to the medial border of the optic canal, orbital floor and lateral wall were measured. Results: Based on Orbital Index (OI) 39.12% skulls were found to be in mesoseme, 50.5% in microseme and 10.4% in megaseme category, both genders taken together. The mean SON to SOF distance was 42.48 mm in males and 41.52 mm in females. Mean Infraorbital Foramen (IF) to Inferior Orbital Fissure (IOF) distance was 22.4 mm in males and 22.26 mm in females. Average Frontozygomatic Suture (FZ) to Inferior Orbital Fissure (IOF) was 24.35 mm whereas it was 32.97 mm for the ALC to Optic canal (OC) distance. Conclusion: Most of the skulls studies belonged to the microseme category. Orbital height and breadth were significantly higher in males compared to females.

Radiologic Evaluation of the Anterior and Posterior Ethmoidal Foramen and Optic Canal by Paranasal Sinus Computed Tomography Scan among Adult Filipinos

ABSTRACT Objective: To measure the average distances from anterior lacrimal crest (ALC) to anterior ethmoidal foramen (AEF), anterior ethmoidal foramen to posterior ethmoidal foramen (PEF) and posterior ethmoidal foramen to optic canal (OC) using plain paranasal sinus (PNS) computed tomography (CT) scans of adults in a tertiary private hospital in the Philippines. Methods: Design: Retrospective review of plain PNS CT scans Setting: Tertiary Private Teaching Hospital Participants: One hundred four (104) plain PNS CT scans from January 2018 to December 2020 were considered for inclusion. Results: Of the 104 PNS CT scans, 35 were excluded - seven for age less than eighteen, six for undistinguishable PEF and twenty-two for chronic rhinosinusitis. The remaining 69 PNS CT scans demonstrated identifiable structures, with overall average distances from ALC to AEF of 23.71 ± 2.43 mm, AEF to PEF of 10.87 ± 2.39 mm and PEF to OC of 7.39 ± 2.28 mm. Conclusion: Our study suggests average distances for localization of vital structures such as the anterior ethmoidal artery, posterior ethmoidal artery and optic nerve among Filipinos. Because of considerable variation between and within sexes, individual measurements should still be obtained for each patient in performing endonasal, skull base and orbital surgery.

A cadaveric study investigating the anatomy of the medial orbital wall.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the applicability of the current surgical guideline, known as ‘24-12-6’ surgical guideline, in the Hispanic and European populations. This guideline is used during numerous orbital surgeries and states that the distance between the anterior lacrimal crest (ALC) to the anterior ethmoidal foramen (AEF) (24 mm), the AEF to the posterior ethmoidal foramen (PEF) (12 mm), and the PEF to the optic canal (OC) (6 mm) follows a Rule of Halves. Previous studies suggest this surgical guideline is not applicable for all ethnicities; however, to our knowledge, no data has been published regarding the accuracy of this guideline pertaining to the Hispanic population. An experimental study was performed on 79 orbits (52 cadavers) donated to the Human Anatomy Program at UT Health San Antonio. The ALC, AEF, posterior ethmoidal foramen, and OC were identified; the orbit was enucleated and all remaining soft tissue removed. The distance between each landmark was recorded using a digital caliper. For all cadavers studied, the distances between the ALC, AEF, posterior ethmoidal foramen, and OC were 24.76 mm, 13.89 mm, and 7.61 mm, respectively. Thus, the ‘24-12-6’ surgical guideline was not applicable to the sample studied. Based on ethnicity data, these relationships were also not true for the European or the Hispanic populations. Therefore, significant anatomical variations exist in the current surgical guideline. Clinicians may need to adjust their methodology during surgical procedures in order to optimize patient care.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features of Medial Canthal Tendon in Centurion Syndrome

ABSTRACT Purpose To describe the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of the medial canthal tendon (MCT) insertion in a series of patients of the Centurion syndrome. Methods This was a prospective study carried out over a period of 1 year. All patients clinically diagnosed with Centurion syndrome underwent MRI with surface coils. The insertion of both the limbs (anterior and posterior) of the MCT was studied radio-logically and correlated clinically. Results We recruited six patients, of whom four were males. The anterior limb of the MCT was found to insert anterior to the anterior lacrimal crest in three, normally inserted in two, and thinned out and mal-developed in one. None of the patients with normal insertion had the classical beak sign or prominent nasal bridge. Conclusion The anterior limb of the MCT may not always be inserted anteriorly in cases of Centurion syndrome; it can be normal or mal-developed. Disinsertion of the MCT, which is the most common procedure done for Centurion syndrome, might not be helpful in cases where the MCT is normally inserted or mal-developed.

A Novel Medial Canthal Reconstruction Technique in Children With Blepharophimosis Syndrome.

There are different techniques for medial canthoplasty in blepharophimosis syndrome where individuals have epicanthus inversus and telecanthus leading to typical facial appearances. These methods have potential problems with scarring, epistaxis, and extrusion of metal plates. The authors describe a novel technique of medial canthal reconstruction using titanium microplates with microscrew fixation to the anterior lacrimal crest, with effective, safe, and reproducible results. Seven children with blepharophimosis syndrome underwent medial canthus reconstruction surgery at a single center with the collaboration of a pediatric oculoplastic surgeon and craniofacial plastic surgeon to improve eye opening through correction of the lid contours and telecanthus. This is a safe, effective, and reproducible technique, with minimal morbidity and rapid postoperative recovery in children. It produces cosmetically acceptable scars and a strong stable reconstruction of the medial canthal insertion.

Radiological assessment of the lateral osteotomy line–lacrimal system distance on three-dimensional models

AimsOne of the most commonly performed operations in aesthetic, plastic, and reconstructive surgery is rhinoplasty, the aim of which is to construct an altered nasal shape, either for aesthetic or functional reasons. The lateral osteotomy is the most traumatic step of rhinoplasty, and is generally difficult to perform. The lacrimal system can be damaged during the lateral osteotomy procedure. In this study, we aimed to measure the distance between the lacrimal system and the lateral osteotomy line, and to determine the safe and ideal osteotomy level, which is very important in rhinoplasty procedures. We also evaluated the safe relationship of this osteotomy level with the lacrimal system by constructing a three-dimensional model. Materials and methodsThe three-dimensional models were constructed on axial planes using paranasal computed tomographic (CT) images of 40 male and 40 female patients. The ‘lateral osteotomy model’ was designed in three dimensions. The axial CT images were obtained from the model. On the CT images, the distance between the lateral osteotomy line and the lacrimal system was assessed by measuring three distances. The first was the distance between the anterior lacrimal crest and the lateral osteotomy line. The second was the distance from the midpoint between the anterior lacrimal crest and the inferior meatus to the lateral osteotomy line. The third was the distance between the opening of the lacrimal canal to the inferior meatus and the lateral osteotomy line. ResultsNo lacrimal system injury was seen on any of the models. The shortest distance was found between the anterior lacrimal crest and the lateral osteotomy line, measured at 4.5 mm and 5.0 mm in the female and male patients, respectively. ConclusionPerforming the lateral osteotomy meticulously while paying attention to remaining anterior to the medial canthal ligament will not lead to any lacrimal system injury.

A Cadaveric Study of Skeletal Facial Foramina in the Hispanic/Latino Population

Clinicians currently follow two surgical guidelines involving skeletal features of the orbit and face to optimize patient care. The first guideline states that along the medial wall of the orbit, the distances between the anterior lacrimal crest, anterior ethmoidal foramen, posterior ethmoidal foramen, and optic canal, follow a “24‐12‐6”mm guideline. The second guideline states that the supraorbital foramen/notch, infraorbital foramen, and mental foramen are equidistant from the midline. Previous studies suggest these two surgical guidelines are not applicable for all ethnicities; however, to our knowledge, no data has been published regarding the accuracy of these guidelines pertaining to the Hispanic/Latino population. A cadaveric study was performed to investigate these skeletal guidelines in the Hispanic/Latino population. Adult male and female cadavers, with no evidence of trauma to the orbit and face, donated to the Human Anatomy Program at UT Health San Antonio were used for this study. To investigate the medial orbital wall “24‐12‐6” guideline, distances between four orbital landmarks (anterior lacrimal crest, anterior and posterior ethmoidal foramina, and optic canal) were measured using a 26‐gauge wire and a Vernier caliper. To investigate whether the supraorbital, infraorbital, and mental foramen, lie within the same sagittal plane, we used a Vernier caliper to measure the distance between each foramen to midline. Our preliminary findings suggest these surgical guidelines may not accurately describe the morphologic characteristics of the Hispanic/Latino bony orbit and face. Preliminary results to date indicate the average distances from the anterior lacrimal crest to the anterior ethmoidal foramen, the anterior ethmoidal foramen to the posterior ethmoidal foramen, and the posterior ethmoidal foramen to the optic canal for Hispanic/Latino orbits (n =5) were 24.4 mm (± 0.686), 16.2 mm (± 2.190), 7.4 mm (± 0.661) respectively. This suggests the anatomy of the Hispanic/Latino boney orbit may differ from the currently accepted “24‐12‐6” surgical guideline. Meanwhile, preliminary data also indicates the average distances from the midline to the supraorbital foramen/notch, infraorbital foramen, and mental foramen for all cadavers studied (94 hemifaces, 47 cadavers) were 26.07 mm (± 3.88), 29.12 mm (± 4.30), 25.46 mm (± 3.15) respectively. This also suggests the currently practiced guideline may not apply to the Hispanic/Latino population. To optimize patient care, it is critical clinicians are aware of ethnic difference between anatomical structures. Our preliminary data is the first to report specific anatomical relationships in the medial orbital wall and facial foramina in the Hispanic/Latino population.This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2019 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

Measurement of Medial Wall Bowing and Clinical Associations in Thyroid Eye Disease.

To propose and validate a measure of medial wall bowing in thyroid eye disease (TED) and to assess the clinical correlates of bowing in TED. In this cross-sectional cohort study, all patients affected with TED seen by a single specialist over a 2-year period were screened for study entry. Eligible participants were adults with clinical evidence of TED and either CT or MRI of the orbits. Exclusion criteria included prior history of decompression surgery and/or medical or other ophthalmic conditions that could alter the orbital anatomy. The primary outcome measure was prevalence of medial wall bowing. Secondary outcomes included the associations between medial wall bowing and exophthalmometry, diplopia, rectus muscle restriction, dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON), strabismus, and quality of life. Medial wall bowing was defined as medial divergence of the medial wall from a straight line drawn between the anterior lacrimal crest and the middle of the optic canal and measured radiographically using axial images of the orbits. Volumetric analysis of bowing was performed on a sample of orbits with and without bowing. Volumetric and axial single slice measurements were compared. Bivariate statistics were performed. The final sample included 112 orbital images from 56 patients with TED. Medial wall bowing was found to be evident in 11.6% (n = 13/112) of orbits. Medial wall bowing was significantly associated with greater Hertel measurements, horizontal and vertical muscle restriction, ocular surface symptoms and Clinical Activity Score, as well as lower quality of life scores. Patients with demonstrable medial wall bowing were more likely to be affected by optic neuropathy, diplopia (Gorman score ≥ 1), strabismus, or horizontal muscle restriction. Analysis of the volume for medial wall bowing demonstrated that the height of the arc at the peak of bowing on an axial image of a 2-dimensional CT scan correlated highly with the total volume of bowing (r = 0.90, p < 0.001). The identification of medial wall bowing on CT or MRI is associated with clinical measures of disease severity, including diplopia and DON.

New type of sutured titanium wire combined with titanium nail internal fixation for correction of serious old medial canthus deformity

To evaluate the effectiveness of a new type of sutured titanium wire combined with titanium nail internal fixation in correction of serious old medial canthus deformity. Between March 2012 and June 2015, 18 patients with unilateral serious old medial canthus deformity were treated. There were 14 males and 4 females. The patient's age ranged from 23 to 62 years (mean, 42 years). The causes of deformity included accident injury in 10 cases, boxing injury in 4 cases, sharp device scratching in 3 cases, and animal bite in 1 case. All patients had been treated with suture or steel wire fixation in other hospitals to correct the medial canthus deformity and the deformity recurred. The interval between this operation and the first operation was 6 months to 2 years (mean, 16 months). The nasal root or medial canthus skin scar incision was used as the operative approach, and the adhesion of the medial canthus ligament to the adjacent tissues was fully loosened, then the tail end of the new type sutured titanium wire was fixed to the residual end of the medial canthus ligament. After passing through the scar tissue, the needle end of wire was fixed on the titanium nail in the bone wall of anterior lacrimal crest. The position and shape of the medial canthus angle was determined by adjusting the tightness of titanium wire. All incisions healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 6-12 months (mean, 10 months). In 16 cases, the medial canthus deformity was obviously corrected, and the appearances of bilateral eyes were basically symmetrical, without exposure of titanium nail and titanium wire. The medial canthus was retreated at 2 mm after 6 months in 2 cases, who were satisfied with their appearance without reoperation. Application of the new type of suture titanium wire combined with titanium nail in the correction of serious old medial canthus deformity can achieve good effectiveness with the low recurrence rate.

An Applied Anatomical Study of the Ethmoidal Arteries: Computed Tomographic and Direct Measurements in Human Cadavers.

Computed tomography (CT) images have been used in very few studies on distances to the ethmoidal arteries in the orbit. Most other studies have included direct measurements on cadavers and frequently quote the 24-12-6 mm rule to describe distances from the anterior lacrimal crest to the anterior and posterior ethmoidal foramina (AEF and PEF), optic canal (OC), respectively. However, the large interindividual variation of distances renders absolute values less applicable in a clinical setting. Preoperative measurements on CT images may provide more precise distances than absolute rules and thus lead to safer orbital surgery. The authors hypothesize that the distances to the ethmoidal arteries and the length of the medial wall are positively correlated and that measurements of the distances from the posterior lacrimal crest (PLC) on CT images are feasible with a low intra- and interobserver variability.Fifty intact orbits from 25 Caucasian cadavers were exenterated and examined. In additional, high-resolution CT scans of 48 orbits from 24 other Caucasian nonexenterated cadavers were examined. Distances were measured from 4 different anterior landmarks to the AEF and PEF and the OC.Distances from the most anterior landmarks to the arteries were positively correlated with the length of the medial wall. Measurements of the distances from the PLC to the ethmoidal arteries on CT images were feasible with a low intra- and interobserver variability. In conclusion, iatrogenic damage to the ethmoidal arteries in the orbit may be best avoided by using CT measurements in presurgical planning.

Medial Canthoplasty Combined with Conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy for the Treatment of Delayed Medial Telecanthal Deformity.

Background:Rupture of the medial canthal ligament can be caused by many events. It remains a challenge to rebuild the drainage system and restore the function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of medial canthoplasty combined with conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy (CDCR) in patients with medial telecanthal deformities and lacrimal drainage system damage.Methods:Twenty-two patients (22 eyes) treated with medial canthoplasty and CDCR during June 2012 to June 2014 were included in this retrospective study. For all patients, a self-tapping, titanium, low-profile head microscrew was drilled into the solid bone on the posterior aspect of the anterior lacrimal crest at the attachment position of the medial canthal ligament. Medpor-coated tear drainage tubes were applied. Distance of patient's lateral displacement before and after operation was recorded and compared. The complications of CDCR were described.Results:Before the surgery, distance of patient's canthal displacement was 4–6 mm. The canthal distance between two eyes of patients with surgery was 1 mm or less. Among patients with CDCR, four patients had proximal obstruction and two patients had distal obstruction. Five patients had tube malposition, for example, tube extrusion 1–3 months after surgery.Conclusions:Medial canthoplasty combined with CDCR is an effective surgical method for treatment of patients with medial telecanthal deformity and lacrimal drainage system obstruction. The study indicates that medial canthoplasty combined with CDCR surgery rebuilds normal appearance of eyelid and contour of the medial canthus and successfully repairs the function of the lacrimal drainage system.

Computed tomographic measurements of orbital entrance dimensions in relation to age and gender in a sample of healthy Iranian population

PurposeTo determine the dimensions of orbital entrance in unaffected bony orbit by computed tomography (CT) in a sample of Iranian population. MethodsRadiologic features of 120 patients were gathered using standardized skull protocol by CT scan. We measured the distance between anterior lacrimal crest and orbital border of zygomatic bone, termed width, and the distance between the plane passing through the anterior orbital entrance to optic canal, termed depth, using horizontal sections of skull base CT scan. Sagittal sections were used to demonstrate the height, the distance between frontal and maxillary bone. Orbital index (height/width *100) was then calculated. ResultsThe mean values of orbital width, height, and depth were 28.49 ± 2.35 mm, 32.14 ± 1.57 mm, and 38.84 ± 3.90 mm, respectively. There was a significant difference in height (P = 0.001), depth (P = 0.004), and width (P = 0.012) between the right and left orbits. The mean value of the orbital index was 88.65 ± 8.90 mm in this population. ConclusionsThe orbital index of this sample Iranian people is Mesoseme according to our study results, the expected characteristic of the white race. The right orbits are determined to be larger than the left ones.

Transorbital endoscopic identification of supernumerary ethmoid arteries.

Background:Anterior and posterior ethmoid arteries supply the paranasal sinuses, septum, and lateral nasal wall. Precise identification of these arteries is important during anterior skull base procedures, endoscopic sinus surgery, and ligation of ethmoid arteries for epistaxis refractory to standard treatment. There is controversy in the literature regarding the prevalence of supernumerary ethmoid arteries.Objective:This study examined the prevalence of supernumerary ethmoid arteries by using direct visualization after transorbital endoscopic dissection.Methods:Nineteen cadaveric specimens were evaluated by using a superior lid crease (blepharoplasty) incision and an endoscopic approach to the medial orbital wall. Ethmoid arteries were identified as they pierced the lamina papyracea coplanar with the skull base and optic nerve. The distances from the anterior lacrimal crest to the ethmoid arteries and optic nerve were measured with a surgical ruler under endoscopic guidance.Results:Thirty-eight cadaveric orbits were measured. Overall, there were three or more ethmoid arteries (including anterior and posterior arteries) in 58% of orbits, with 8% of the total sample that contained four or more ethmoid arteries. The average number of ethmoid arteries was 2.7. Bilateral supernumerary ethmoid arteries were noted in 42% of the specimens. The distance between the anterior lacrimal crest and the anterior ethmoid, posterior ethmoid, and optic nerve averaged 20, 35, and 41 mm, respectively. The average distance to the supernumerary or middle ethmoid artery was 29 mm.Conclusion:This study found supernumerary ethmoid arteries in 58% of cadaveric specimens, a prevalence much higher than previously reported. Recognition of these additional vessels may improve safety during endoscopic sinus surgery and skull base surgery, and may permit more effective ligation for refractory epistaxis originating from the ethmoid system.

Clinical and surgical implications regarding morphometric variations of the medial wall of the orbit in relation to age and gender.

The ethmoidal foramens are located on the medial wall of the orbit and are key reference points for intraoperative orientation. Detailed knowledge of the anatomy, bony landmarks and morphometric characteristics of the medial wall of the orbit is essential for various surgical procedures. The aim of this study was to determine the morphometric variations in the medial wall of the orbit and establish significant variations regarding age and gender. A total of 110 orbits were analyzed and subdivided by age (over or under 40years) and gender. The distances of the medial wall of the orbit between the anterior lacrimal crest, the ethmoidal foramen, the optic canal and the interforamina were determined. Safe surgical areas were sought. Statistical tests were used to determine the differences between groups. In men, there is a safe surgical area proximal to the anterior and posterior ethmoidal foramen. In women, this area is in the posterior third of the medial wall of the orbit between the posterior ethmoidal foramen and the optic canal. Regarding variation according to age, the results of this study suggested that the anteroposterior diameter of the medial wall increases with age. This study showed that the anteroposterior total length of the medial orbit wall is similar between genders of similar age, increases with age, and has significant variations in the distances between the various structures that make up the medial orbit wall with regard to gender and age.

Morphometry of the Orbit in East-European Population Based on Three-Dimensional CT Reconstruction

Objectives. To determine safe distances within the orbit outlining reliable operative area on the basis of multislice computed tomography (MSCT) scans.Patients and Methods. MSCT of orbits of 50 Caucasian patients (26 males and 24 females, mean age 56) were analysed. Native scans resolutions were in all cases 0.625 mm. Measurements were done in postprocessing workstation with 2D and 3D reconstructions. The safe distances values were calculated by subtracting three standard deviations from the arithmetical average(X=AVG-3 STD). This method was chosen because this range covers 99.86% of every population.Results. The results of the measurements in men and women, respectively, are as follows (1) distance from optic canal to supraorbital foramen, mean 46,49 mm and 43,29 mm, (2) distance from the optic canal to maxillozygomatic suture at the inferior margin of the orbit mean 45,24 mm and 42,8 mm, (3) distance from the optic canal to frontozygomatic suture 46,15 mm and 43,58 mm, (4) distance from the optic canal to anterior lacrimal crest 40,40 mm and 38,39 mm, (5) distance from superior orbital fissure to the frontozygomatic suture 34,06 mm and 32,62 mm, and (6) distance from supraorbital foramen to the superior orbital fissure 42,32 mm and 39,39 mm.Conclusion. The most probable safe distances calculated by adopted formula were for the superior orbital fissure 23,39–30,58 mm and for the orbital opening of the optic canal 31,9–38,0 mm from the bony structures of the orbital entrance depending on the orbital quadrant.

Aesthetic assessment in periciliary "v-incision" versus conventional external dacryocystorhinostomy in Asians.

To determine the functional and aesthetic outcomes of periciliary "v-incision" external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) and to compare with conventional approach. Charts review of consecutive cases of "v-incision" (VDCR) or conventional DCR performed in a single institute, between January 2007 and March 2014. All procedures were performed or supervised by a single surgeon. Two periciliary incisions were made near the skin-mucosal junction at the upper and lower eyelid margins medial to the punctum joining at the medial canthal angle to form a "v" shape. Subcutaneous dissection was carried out inferomedially to reach the anterior lacrimal crest. DCR was then performed in the usual manner. Functional success was defined as no persistent or recurrent epiphora and patency on irrigation of the lacrimal drainage system at least 6 months post-surgery. A cross-sectional aesthetic survey was conducted by asking the patients to rate their scar appearance satisfaction on a visual analogue scale (VAS). External photographs were graded by two independent, masked physicians using VAS as well as the Stony Brook scar evaluation scale (SBSES). Sixty-one patients with median age of 64 years met the inclusion criteria, with median follow-up duration of 28 months. Thirty-eight eyes underwent VDCR, and 23 had conventional DCR. The functional success rate for VDCR was 83.3, 95 % confidence intervals (95%CI) [lower 0.68, upper 0.92] and for conventional DCR was 73.9 %, 95%CI [lower 0.54, upper 0.87]; without statistically significant difference (p = 0.38). VDCR patients rated higher aesthetic outcome on VAS (mean scores 95.5 ± 16.8 vs 82.9 ± 25.1, p = 0.03). On the SBSES, both observers gave higher aesthetic scores to the VDCR group (observer #1 4.6 ± 1.1 and #2 4.7 ± 1.2, p < 0.01) than conventional DCR (observer #1 3.1 ± 2.8 and #2 2.8 ± 2.1, p < 0.01). More patients reported that they could wear spectacles within 1 week post-VDCR (44.7 vs 4.3 %, p < 0.01). "V-incision" external DCR has a similar functional success rate to that of the conventional approach and has superior aesthetic outcomes as reported by surgeons and patients. However, a higher proportion of trainees under supervision performed conventional DCR, and it is uncertain whether the outcomes were also influenced by the level of surgeon's expertise.