The term "planum orbitale" is a medical term describing a flat area within the orbit of the eye. The phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈpleɪ.nəm ɔrˈbaɪ.təl/. The "pl" sound is spelled with a "p," and the "au" sound is spelled with an "o." The "t" is silent in "orbitale," and the stress falls on the second syllable. This word is spelled using Latin roots, and its accurate pronunciation is crucial for medical professionals who need to communicate effectively with one another about the human anatomy.
The term "planum orbitale" refers to a specific anatomical structure located in the anterior part of the orbit, or eye socket. It is a flat or slightly concave surface, situated between the supraorbital ridge (the bony prominence above the eye) and the frontal bone (the bone that forms the forehead).
The planum orbitale is particularly notable for its smoothness and the absence of any major bony irregularities or protrusions. This feature makes it an ideal location for surgical procedures involving the orbit. Surgeons often use this region for accessing and treating conditions such as orbital fractures, ocular tumors, or inflammation.
Furthermore, the planum orbitale plays a crucial role in supporting the contents of the orbit and maintaining the shape and stability of the eye. It serves as a point of attachment for various structures, including the muscles responsible for eye movement, the periosteum (the connective tissue covering the bone), and the orbital septum (a layer of tissue separating the eyeball from the surrounding structures).
In summary, the planum orbitale is a smooth, flat region situated within the anterior part of the orbit. It provides a suitable surgical access point to address various ophthalmic conditions and contributes to the structural integrity of the eye and its surrounding structures.
Orbital plain, orbital surface of the maxilla.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "planum orbitale" is derived from Latin and can be broken down as follows:
1. "Planum" - This Latin term translates to "flat" or "plain". In the context of anatomy, it refers to a flat or level surface.
2. "Orbitale" - This word is derived from the Latin term "orbita", which means "socket" or "cavity" and specifically refers to the eye socket or orbital cavity.
Therefore, "planum orbitale" can be understood to mean the "flat surface of the eye socket" or "level area of the orbital cavity". It is a term frequently used in anatomical descriptions to refer to the area of the eye socket where certain surgical procedures or measurements are performed.