Palpebral Part of Orbicularis Oculi Muscle

Origin

The orbicularis oculi muscle is a broad, flat muscle that encircles the orbit, thus forming a sphincter around each of the eye sockets. It may be divided into three portions:

—orbital part;

—palpebral part;

—lacrimal part.

The palpebral part originates from the medial palpebral ligament.

Insertion

The fibers of the palpebral part intertwine forming the lateral palpebral raphe, with bulk of its fibers located within the eyelid.

Key Features & Anatomical Relations

The palpebral part of the orbicularis oculi muscle is found within the upper and lower eyelids. Anteriorly is the skin of the eyelid and posteriorly are the orbital septum, tarsal plate, and palpebral conjunctiva, respectively.

Actions

The palpebral part of orbicularis oculi muscle gently closes the eyelid, for example when blinking (Standring, 2016).

List of Clinical Correlates

—Bell’s palsy

—Lagophthalmos

References

Standring, S. (2016) Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. Gray's Anatomy Series 41st edn.: Elsevier Limited.