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Infraorbital Artery

arteria infraorbitalis

The infraorbital artery is a branch of the maxillary artery that enters the orbit through the inferior orbital fissure, traverses the infraorbital groove and canal in the orbital floor, and emerges through the infraorbital foramen to supply the skin and mucosa of the lower eyelid, the cheek, the lateral nose, and the upper lip. Within the canal it gives anterior superior alveolar branches to the upper incisor and canine roots.

Region: Head & Skull

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The infraorbital artery and nerve travel together in the infraorbital canal and emerge together at the infraorbital foramen approximately 5-7 mm below the infraorbital rim. Both are at risk during orbital floor fracture repair, Le Fort osteotomies, and midface lift procedures. Infraorbital nerve block anaesthesia (at the foramen or within the canal via an intraoral approach) is used for upper lip, lateral nose, lower eyelid, and anterior upper teeth procedures. Midface free flap anastomosis in advanced reconstruction uses the infraorbital vessels as recipient pedicles.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Infraorbital Neurovascular Bundle in Orbital Floor Repair

Infraorbital artery and nerve injury during orbital floor fracture repair through a subciliary or transconjunctival approach produces infraorbital anaesthesia and midface haematoma; the neurovascular bundle must be identified in the infraorbital groove and protected throughout dissection and implant placement.