What are the main structures of the orbital bone walls?
Nov 18, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
The main structures of the orbital bony wall generally include the orbital part of the frontal bone, greater wing of the sphenoid bone, lamina papyracea of the ethmoid bone, orbital surface of the maxilla, and orbital process of the zygomatic bone. The orbital part of the frontal bone is located in the superior wall of the orbit, forming most of the upper margin and roof of the orbit. This bone is relatively thin; medially it adjoins the lamina papyracea of the ethmoid bone and the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone, laterally it connects to the orbital process of the zygomatic bone. Its surface features the supraorbital groove and supraorbital foramen, which serve as passages for nerves and blood vessels.
The main structures of the orbital bony walls generally include the orbital part of the frontal bone, greater wing of the sphenoid bone, lamina papyracea of the ethmoid bone, orbital surface of the maxilla, and orbital process of the zygomatic bone. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Orbital Part of the Frontal Bone: Located in the superior wall of the orbit, it forms most of the upper margin and roof of the orbit. This thin layer of bone is adjacent medially to the lamina papyracea of the ethmoid bone and the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone, and laterally connects to the orbital process of the zygomatic bone. The supraorbital groove and supraorbital foramen on its surface provide passageways for nerves and blood vessels, while also protecting the superior portion of the eyeball and surrounding soft tissues.
2. Greater Wing of the Sphenoid Bone: Forms the major portion of the lateral wall of the orbit, located on the lateral side. Medially, it connects with the lamina papyracea of the ethmoid bone and the orbital surface of the maxilla; superiorly, it articulates with the orbital part of the frontal bone. This thick, strong bone effectively resists lateral external forces. Its orbital surface contains the superior and inferior orbital fissures, which serve as critical pathways for neurovascular communication between the orbit and other regions.
3. Lamina Papyracea of the Ethmoid Bone: Also known as the orbital plate of the ethmoid bone, it constitutes the majority of the medial wall of the orbit. Extremely thin, this structure lies adjacent to the ethmoid sinuses medially and connects laterally with the lacrimal bone and the orbital surface of the maxilla. It is prone to fracture due to trauma, potentially creating a communication between the ethmoid sinus and orbit, leading to orbital infection or emphysema.
4. Orbital Surface of the Maxilla: Situated in the inferior wall of the orbit, it forms most of the orbital floor. Medially, it connects with the lamina papyracea and lacrimal bone; laterally, it articulates with the orbital process of the zygomatic bone; and inferiorly, it borders the maxillary sinus. The infraorbital groove and infraorbital canal on its surface transmit the infraorbital nerve and vessels, which innervate and supply the lower facial region and inferior orbital tissues.
5. Orbital Process of the Zygomatic Bone: Forms the lower part of the lateral orbital wall and the lateral portion of the inferior orbital wall. Medially, it connects with the orbital surface of the maxilla and the greater wing of the sphenoid bone; superiorly, it articulates with the orbital part of the frontal bone. With its thick, robust structure, it enhances stability of the lateral and inferior aspects of the orbit. It also contributes to the formation of the zygomatic arch, providing structural support to the facial contour.
In daily life, it is important to protect the eyes and avoid traumatic impacts that could lead to fractures of the orbital walls. If pain, swelling, or vision loss occurs after eye injury, prompt medical evaluation is necessary to assess potential damage to the orbital bones.
