Ophthalmicus

Ophthalmicus is a Latin adjective meaning “of the eye” and is used in anatomical terminology to designate structures related to the eye or orbit. In modern medical use, the term appears in names of nerves, arteries, and veins associated with the eye, often in Latin or Latinized form.

Nervus ophthalmicus, or the ophthalmic nerve, is the first division (V1) of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V). It provides mainly sensory innervation to the eyeball and surrounding structures, and it gives rise to the frontal, lacrimal, and nasociliary nerves. The ophthalmic nerve travels through the superior orbital fissure and contributes to corneal sensation and orbital sensation.

Arteria ophthalmica, the ophthalmic artery, is a branch of the internal carotid artery. It enters the orbit via the optic canal and supplies the eye and orbital structures through branches such as the central retinal artery, posterior ciliary arteries, lacrimal artery, and the supraorbital and supratrochlear arteries. It also contributes to the blood supply of the eyelids and other orbital tissues.

Vena ophthalmica refers to the ophthalmic veins, including the superior and inferior ophthalmic veins, which drain the orbit and typically communicate with the cavernous sinus. These vessels play a role in orbital venous drainage and intraorbital circulation.

In summary, ophthalmicus functions primarily as a descriptor in anatomical terms for eye-related nerves and vessels, reflecting its Latin roots and continuing relevance in anatomical nomenclature.