Which of the following is wrong regarding ophthalmic artery –
**Question:** Which of the following is wrong regarding ophthalmic artery -
A. Ophthalmic artery is a branch of the internal carotid artery
B. Ophthalmic artery supplies blood to the eye and surrounding tissues
C. Ophthalmic artery has a long course through the orbit
D. Ophthalmic artery is the only artery that supplies blood to the eye
**Core Concept:** The ophthalmic artery is a terminal branch of the internal carotid artery (ICA), supplying blood to the eye and surrounding tissues. It plays a crucial role in nourishing the eye and maintaining its function.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** D is incorrect because the ophthalmic artery is not the sole artery supplying blood to the eye. The ophthalmic artery is one of the primary arteries supplying blood to the eye, but another major artery, the central retinal artery, also originates from the ICA and supplies blood to the retina and choroid. Thus, the eye receives dual blood supply from both the ophthalmic artery and central retinal artery.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Ophthalmic artery is a branch of the internal carotid artery: This is correct, as mentioned earlier, the ophthalmic artery is a terminal branch of the internal carotid artery.
B. Ophthalmic artery supplies blood to the eye and surrounding tissues: This is also correct, as the ophthalmic artery plays a crucial role in supplying blood to the eye and its adjacent tissues.
C. Ophthalmic artery has a long course through the orbit: This is partially correct, as the ophthalmic artery indeed has a long course through the orbit, passing through the cavernous sinus before reaching the eye.
**Clinical Pearl:** Understanding the dual blood supply of the eye, from both the ophthalmic artery and central retinal artery, is essential for maintaining proper ocular health and preventing complications such as ischemic optic neuropathy, which can result from occlusion or stenosis of these arteries.