Neurosurgical considerations on the anatomy of the medial canthus in children

Abstract

Craniofacial surgery and anterior skull base surgical techniques require an intimate knowledge of periorbital structures. The medial orbital anatomy is especially important for midline approaches to nasion encephalocele, midline trauma, surgery for hypertelorism as well as midline approaches to anterior skull base lesions. The medial canthal tendon is of primary importance in anchoring the eyelid medially in a cosmetic and functional fashion. This review will summarize the anatomic features of the medial canthus and its surrounding structures, including vascular and muscular components. The intimate relationship of the three components of the medial canthal tendon to the nasal lacrimal apparatus is emphasized. Techniques to prevent injury as well as to repair abnormalities in this area will be discussed.