Lacrimal Groove On The Lacrimal Bone, Lateral View

Description

Lacrimal bone anatomy is centered here on the lacrimal groove (sulcus lacrimalis), a vertical depression on the orbital surface that lodges the nasolacrimal sac at the anteromedial wall of the orbit. Along the anterior margin, the groove is bounded by the anterior lacrimal crest, which apposes the frontal process of the maxilla to complete the lacrimal fossa, while the posterior lacrimal crest forms a sharper ridge posteriorly against the ethmoid contribution to the medial orbital wall. From this lateral perspective, the groove runs superior to inferior, guiding the transition from lacrimal sac superiorly toward the nasolacrimal duct inferiorly at the level of the inferomedial orbital rim. Small bone, high surgical relevance. Obstruction or infection of the nasolacrimal drainage pathway often localizes to this region, and the bony boundaries shown here frame where a distended lacrimal sac presents with painful swelling just inferior to the medial canthal tendon. For external dacryocystorhinostomy, the relationship between the lacrimal groove and the adjacent maxillary and ethmoidal landmarks determines the osteotomy window and helps avoid inadvertent entry into the orbit or injury to the angular vessels. The fixed lateral lighting makes the concavity of the sulcus and the crests readable at a glance, which is often the sticking point when learners confuse the lacrimal fossa with the nasolacrimal canal farther inferiorly. Orbit-focused teaching sessions benefit from this illustration when introducing the medial orbital wall, the lacrimal apparatus, and common fracture patterns that extend into the lacrimal bone. It also fits well in ophthalmology and ENT operative atlases to orient the reader before discussing nasolacrimal duct probing, stenting, or dacryocystorhinostomy approaches. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.