Orbital opening
Aditus orbitae
Definition
The orbital opening is the opening of the orbital bone cavity, which is surrounded by the orbital margin.
It is bounded dorsally and ventrally by the supraorbital and infraorbital margins, respectively. The outer edges together form a bony ring.
Variation:
In carnivores, the orbital margin is incomplete and open laterally. It serves as a physical barrier and attachment point for the orbital ligament.
In herbivores, the orbital rim is completely closed and surrounded by a bony ring.
References
König HE, Lieibich HG. Veterinary Anatomy of Domestic mammals, 6th edition, Schattauer, Stuttgart, 2014.
Constantinescu GM, Schaller O. Illustrated veterinary anatomical nomenclature, 3rd Edition, Enke Verlag, Stuttgart, 2012.
