The term "ora serrata retinae" refers to the jagged edge of the retina at the back of the eye. Its pronunciation is spelled as /ˈɔːrə səˈrɑːtə rɪˈtaɪni/. In this term, "ora" is pronounced as "or-uh", "serrata" as "suh-rat-uh", "retinae" as "rih-tin-ee". The correct spelling of this word is crucial in the medical world, as it enables clear communication between healthcare professionals to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions that affect the retina.
The ora serrata retinae refers to the boundary area between the sensory retina and the ciliary body within the human eye. It is an anatomical structure that demarcates the transition from the photosensitive portion of the retina to the non-photosensitive ciliary body. "Ora serrata" is derived from Latin, where "ora" means margin or boundary, and "serrata" means serrated or notched.
Located around the circumference of the eye, the ora serrata constitutes a serrated edge characterized by a jagged appearance due to the presence of ciliary processes. These processes consist of ridges and valleys, increasing the available surface area for the attachment of the ciliary muscle and zonules that support the lens.
In terms of function, the ora serrata retinae serves as a point of transition where the specialized neural tissue of the retina ends and the ciliary body begins. The central portion of the retina, known as the macula, extends up to the ora serrata. It is at this boundary that the retina primarily lacks photoreceptor cells responsible for capturing and transmitting visual information.
From a clinical perspective, the ora serrata is an important landmark for diagnosing and treating various conditions of the eye. For example, retinal tears or detachments often occur at or near the ora serrata. Moreover, during certain surgical procedures, precise manipulation and handling of the ora serrata may be necessary, such as in cases of retinal repair or surgical treatment of certain types of glaucoma.
Serrated edge of the retina, a wavy ring in the retina, a little behind the ciliary body, marking the limits of the percipient portion of the membrane, the continuation of it lining the ciliary body and iris consisting only of the pigment layer.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.