Orbital plate of ethmoidal labyrinth

The orbital plate of ethmoidal labyrinth, also known as lamina papyracea, is a thin, fragile bone that makes up the lateral wall of the ethmoidal labyrinth and contributes to the inner (or medial) wall of the eye socket, or the orbit. This bone plays a vital role in safeguarding the eye by separating the orbital cavity from the ethmoidal air cells, which are numerous air-filled spaces within the ethmoid bone.

The orbital plate is uniquely positioned within the medial wall of the orbit, allowing it to connect with several other bones. It meets the frontal bone above, the maxilla and palatine bones below, the lacrimal bone in front, and the sphenoid bone at the back. Together, these bones create the intricate structure of the inner wall of the eye socket. Due to its proximity to the ethmoid air cells, the orbital plate is vulnerable to damage during infections of the ethmoidal sinuses. Such infections can potentially lead to serious complications like orbital cellulitis.