The origin of ophthalmic artery (OA) and surrounding structures was investigated in 25 cadavers by three different methods: macroscopic, stereomicroscopic, and histological observations. The following results were obtained. In 42% of the specimens the origin of the OAwas observable in the cranial cavity and defined as the intradural type, running alongside the optic nerve within the subarachnoid space. The other 58% were named the extradural type of the OA, originated within the cavernous wall or cavity, and entered directly the optic dural sheath, thus no part of the OA was visible in the cranial cavity. OApassed through the optic canal within the dural sheath of the optic nerve. In 44% of our specimens the OAwas on the inferomedial side of the optic nerve at the entrance point to the optic canal. OAleft the optic canal at its lateral border in the apex of the orbit in 72% of our specimens. For descriptive purposes the intraorbital course of the ophthalmic artery has been divided into three parts. The first part usually runs along the infero lateral aspect of the optic nerve. The second part crosses over (in 88%) or under the optic nerve running in a medial direction. The third part extends medially to its termination. These anatomical data may provide important information for understanding the variety of the pathology in this region and is also useful for designing operative strategies.

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