FEATURES OF MORPHOGENESIS OF THE BONES OF THE HUMAN ORBIT

Area of Science:

• Embryology
• Anatomy
• Osteology

Background:

• The human orbit's development involves complex bone formation processes.
• Understanding orbital bone development is crucial for diagnosing congenital abnormalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the origins and ossification timeline of human orbital bones.
• To detail age-related anatomical and topographical changes in the developing orbit.

Main Methods:

• Microscopic examination of 18 human embryos/pre-fetuses (4-12 weeks) and 12 fetuses (4-9 months).
• Three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction techniques were employed.
• Analysis focused on osteogenesis and bone model formation.

Main Results:

• Initial osteogenesis signs observed at 6 weeks, with cartilaginous bone models forming around orbital contents.
• First ossification centers identified in the maxilla.
• Intensive ossification of frontal, sphenoidal, ethmoidal bones, and maxilla noted by the 6th month.
• Optic canal formation and separation of orbital fossae occur by the 5th-6th month.
• Müller's muscle transformation to fibrous tissue observed by the 6th month.

Conclusions:

• The 6th and 8th months of prenatal development represent critical periods for human orbit formation.
• These stages are characterized by significant ossification and morphological changes shaping the orbit.