Inferior ophthalmic vein

Last revised by Craig Hacking on 8 Dec 2021

The inferior ophthalmic vein (IOV) is a vein of the inferior orbit and is smaller than the more well-known superior ophthalmic vein (SOV).

Gross anatomy

Origin

The vein forms from a plexus of several veins within the anteroinferior orbit along the infraorbital margin from facial vein tributaries.

Course
Termination
Drainage 

The vein drains parts of the orbit such as the lower eyelid, globe and extra-ocular muscles.

Communication

The infraorbital vein often communicates with the inferior ophthalmic vein. It is formed on the floor of the orbit, courses with the infraorbital nerve and exits via the inferior orbital fissure, draining into the pterygoid venous plexus. 

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.