Posterior Lacrimal Crest Of The Lacrimal Bone, Lateral View

Description

Posterior lacrimal crest on the lacrimal bone rises as a sharp vertical ridge along the medial wall of the orbit, positioned immediately posterior to the lacrimal groove that lodges the lacrimal sac. From this lateral perspective, the crest sits medial to the orbital cavity and posterior to the anterior lacrimal crest of the frontal process of the maxilla, together framing the fossa for the lacrimal sac at the anteromedial orbit. Superiorly it approaches the frontolacrimal region near the frontal bone, while inferiorly it tapers toward the junction with the inferior orbital margin and the entry to the nasolacrimal canal. Fine bony relief along the lacrimal fossa is the focus. The posterior lacrimal crest is a surgical and teaching landmark because it marks the posterior boundary of the lacrimal sac fossa and provides attachment for the lacrimal fascia and the deep fibers of orbicularis oculi (Horner muscle), structures that influence tear drainage into the nasolacrimal duct. Dacryocystitis, nasolacrimal duct obstruction, and planning for external dacryocystorhinostomy all demand precise orientation to this ridge so the osteotomy remains correctly placed relative to the sac and avoids unnecessary violation of the thin lacrimal bone and adjacent ethmoidal wall. Small bone, big consequences. Use this illustration in head and neck anatomy teaching, ophthalmology and ENT training materials on the lacrimal drainage apparatus, and maxillofacial or oculoplastic surgical atlases that need a focused osteologic view of the medial orbital wall. It also suits radiology education when correlating CT of the lacrimal sac fossa with palpable and bony landmarks for preoperative planning. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.