Dorsal nasal artery

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The dorsal nasal artery, also known as the dorsonasal artery, is a terminal branch of the ophthalmic artery.

Gross anatomy

Arising as a terminal branch of the ophthalmic artery, the dorsal nasal artery exits the orbit after piercing the orbital septum above the medial canthal tendon (medial palpebral ligament). It then runs along the nose to anastomose with the lateral nasal branch of the angular artery.

Supply

The dorsal nasal artery supplies the lacrimal sac and the nose.

Anastomoses

The dorsal nasal artery anastomoses with the lateral nasal branch of the angular artery. This is an example of an ICA/ECA anastomosis.