Supraorbital foramen
Foramen supraorbitale
Definition
The supra-orbital foramen (Sulcus supraorbitalis) is a path for vessels and nerves from the orbit to the superficial region of the forehead.
In Equidae, their exit is done laterally, near the thin base of the zygomatic process.
In other species (Ruminants, Pigs) the path is more medial and becomes a real supra-orbital duct (Canalis supraorbitalis), which is sometimes multiple and passes through the thickness of the frontal bone; this or these canal(s) open then in the deep longitudinal groove of the frontal surface, the supra-orbital groove (Sulcus supraorbitalis).
Finally, the supra-orbital foramen can be replaced by a more or less deep simple supra-orbital notch (Incisura supraorbitalis) that notches the margin of the orbit, as in Men (inconstant disposition) and Dogs.
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