Posterior aspect of the orbital septum is reinforced by ligaments

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the ligaments reinforcing the posterior aspect of the orbital septum.

Methods: Sixteen upper eyelids of eight cadavers of Asians were dissected. Ten were subjected to gross dissections to investigate the ligaments attached to the posterior aspect of the orbital septum and to investigate the relationships with the associated ligamentous structures, and six were used for histological sections to elucidate the ligament anchoring sites in the septum.

Results: The ligaments were attached to the posterior aspect of the orbital septum in both upper and lower eyelids in all cases. Some septa in the upper eyelids were supported by the lower-positioned transverse ligament in the lateral area. In all cases, part of the Lockwood ligament was attached to the posterior aspect of the orbital septum in the lower eyelids. Histologically, the ligaments were anchored to the posterior aspect of the orbital septum.

Conclusions: The ligaments were attached to the posterior aspect of the orbital septum. These ligaments, in cooperation with the associated ligaments, are thought to complement the fragility of the orbital septum.