ABSTRACT
Basic Anatomy A detailed understanding o f the anatom y o f the eye is essential for emergency
physicians in order to properly diagnose and treat ophthalm ologic emergencies. Fur thermore, this understanding allows accurate com m unication with consultants. • Eyelids: The eyelids protect the globe from mechanical injury and dehydration. The
• Lacrimal gland and nasolacrimal duct: The lacrimal gland is located in the superior temporal border o f the upper eyelid. Tears produced by the gland flow over the eye and then drain into the nasolacrimal duct via small openings at the medial aspect o f the eyelid called the lacrimal puncta. From the puncta, tears flow into the canaliculi to the nasolacrimal duct that empties into the nose.
