Which of the following structures passes through the optic canal together with the optic nerve?
- A Superior ophthalmic vein
- B Ophthalmic artery ✓
- C Trochlear nerve
- D Maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve
Correct answer: B. Ophthalmic artery
Explanation
The optic canal, in the lesser wing of the sphenoid, transmits the optic nerve with its meningeal sheaths, the ophthalmic artery, and sympathetic fibres around the artery. The superior ophthalmic vein, trochlear, oculomotor, abducens nerves and the lacrimal and frontal branches of V1 all pass through the superior orbital fissure instead. The maxillary nerve leaves through the foramen rotundum, so it cannot be correct.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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