OPHTHALMIC DIVISION Meaning and
Definition
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The ophthalmic division refers to a specific branch of the trigeminal nerve, one of the 12 cranial nerves in the human body. It is also known as the first division or V1, and it is responsible for innervating the upper face and the eye region.
The ophthalmic division primarily supplies sensory information to the brain from the forehead, scalp, upper eyelid, eyebrows, and the cornea of the eye. It carries signals related to pain, temperature, touch, and pressure from these areas and transmits them to the brain, allowing individuals to perceive various sensations in the ophthalmic region.
Additionally, the ophthalmic division has several important branches that fulfill specific functions. These branches include the frontal nerve, which provides sensory innervation to the forehead and scalp; the lacrimal nerve, responsible for sensory input from the lacrimal gland; the supraorbital nerve, which supplies sensation to the forehead above the eye; the supratrochlear nerve, which innervates the skin between the eyebrows and the forehead; and the nasociliary nerve, in charge of providing sensory information from the surface of the eyeball, nasal cavity, and conjunctiva.
Understanding the anatomy and function of the ophthalmic division is crucial for diagnosing and treating various conditions associated with the sensory input and innervation in the upper face and eye region, as well as for proper management of pain or discomfort in these areas.
Etymology of OPHTHALMIC DIVISION
The word "ophthalmic" derives from the Greek word "ophthalmos", which means "eye". It is combined with the suffix "-ic", which is commonly used to indicate "related to" or "pertaining to". Hence, "ophthalmic" means "related to the eye" or "pertaining to the eye".
The term "division" in this context refers to a specific branch or portion of a nerve or artery. It implies that the ophthalmic nerve is divided into different sections or branches, each serving a specific area or function related to the eye.
Overall, the etymology of "ophthalmic division" signifies a division or branch of the nerve that is related to the eye.
