The zygomatico-orbital artery is a small arterial branch originating from the superficial temporal artery, one of the terminal branches of the external carotid artery. It is found within the facial and cranial region and is closely associated with the lateral orbital area.
Location
This artery travels through the zygomatic region of the face, running along the lateral part of the orbit (eye socket). Specifically, it courses through the lateral aspect of the orbit towards the zygomatic bone, which is located beneath the eye, near the cheekbone. Its position makes it a crucial vessel supplying blood to structures in the orbital and zygomatic areas.
Structure and Anatomy
Origin
The zygomatico-orbital artery arises from the superficial temporal artery, a branch of the external carotid artery. The superficial temporal artery is one of the two terminal branches of the external carotid artery, with the other being the maxillary artery. The point of origin for the zygomatico-orbital artery is near the lateral aspect of the orbit, from where it travels toward the zygomatic bone.
Course
After originating from the superficial temporal artery, the zygomatico-orbital artery runs anteriorly along the lateral orbital margin, which is formed by the frontal and zygomatic bones. It courses along the lateral part of the orbit toward the zygomatic bone, an important facial structure that forms the cheek prominence.
As it travels through the lateral orbital region, the artery passes between the layers of the temporalis fascia and the periorbita (the connective tissue covering the bones of the orbit). This positioning is anatomically significant as it provides the artery with protection and a defined pathway within the confines of the facial and orbital skeleton.
Branches
The zygomatico-orbital artery typically has a number of small branches that contribute to the vascular supply of nearby structures, such as the zygomatic arch, the lateral orbital rim, and portions of the overlying skin and soft tissues.
Anastomoses
One key feature of the zygomatico-orbital artery is its anastomotic connections with other vessels. It anastomoses with branches of the lacrimal artery, a branch of the ophthalmic artery, which is part of the internal carotid artery system. This network of arterial connections helps ensure adequate blood supply to the orbit and surrounding facial regions.
Termination
The zygomatico-orbital artery terminates by dividing into smaller branches that supply portions of the lateral orbital region and zygomatic area, including the skin, muscles, and soft tissues of the face. The terminal branches typically merge with other small arteries in the region, creating a rich vascular network around the orbit and zygomatic bone.
Function
Blood Supply to the Lateral Orbital Region
The primary function of the zygomatico-orbital artery is to provide oxygenated blood to the lateral aspect of the orbit. This includes supplying the skin, soft tissues, and underlying structures around the outer rim of the eye socket. This region is essential for maintaining the integrity and functionality of the surrounding tissues, including those that support eye movement and facial expressions.
Nutrient Delivery to the Zygomatic Bone
As the artery courses along the zygomatic bone, it also plays a role in supplying nutrients to this prominent facial structure. The zygomatic bone, or cheekbone, is critical for facial contour and muscle attachment. The artery’s branches ensure that the bone and nearby periosteum (the outer covering of the bone) receive a steady supply of blood, which is necessary for bone health and regeneration.
Collateral Circulation
Through its anastomotic connections with the lacrimal artery, the zygomatico-orbital artery contributes to collateral circulation. This is an important backup system that ensures blood can still reach the lateral orbital area even if there is an obstruction in another vessel. The interconnection with the ophthalmic and other orbital arteries helps safeguard the blood supply to vital regions around the eye, contributing to the stability of the overall vascular network in the face and orbit.
Support for Facial Soft Tissues
Another key function of the zygomatico-orbital artery is supplying the skin and soft tissues overlying the zygomatic arch and lateral orbital area. This includes delivering oxygen and nutrients to the muscles of facial expression, particularly those in the upper face and around the eye, which are essential for movements such as squinting, blinking, and smiling. By ensuring a healthy blood flow to these areas, the zygomatico-orbital artery helps maintain the functionality and appearance of the facial muscles and skin.
Clinical Significance
The zygomatico-orbital artery, though relatively small, plays a critical role in the vascular supply of the lateral orbital and zygomatic regions. Its clinical significance primarily arises in surgical and cosmetic procedures, trauma, and vascular conditions.
Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgery
During facial surgeries, particularly cosmetic procedures such as facelifts, rhinoplasty, or orbital surgeries, the zygomatico-orbital artery must be carefully preserved to prevent excessive bleeding and ensure proper healing. Its location near the lateral orbital rim makes it vulnerable during these procedures. Damage to this artery can lead to complications such as hematomas or impaired healing of the surrounding tissues.
Trauma and Fractures
In cases of facial trauma, particularly fractures of the zygomatic bone or lateral orbital wall, the zygomatico-orbital artery can be compromised, leading to significant bleeding. Understanding its anatomical course is essential in managing orbital and midface trauma to avoid vascular damage and prevent excessive blood loss or compromised healing.
Vascular Conditions
The zygomatico-orbital artery may also be involved in vascular conditions such as arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) or aneurysms. In such cases, an understanding of its anatomy and anastomotic connections is important for diagnosis and treatment planning, including embolization procedures.
