Eyelid Lymphatics: An Anatomical Study by Microdissection

Abstract

Objective: To obtain further understanding of the eyelid lymphatic anatomy.

Method: Thirty-two halves of eyelids from 16 fresh fetus cadavers were studied by microdissection using a mixture of 3% Prussian blue and chloroform to visualize the lymphatic vessels.

Results: Three layers of lymphatic plexuses were demonstrated in the eyelids: a superficial or preorbicularis muscle plexus; a pretarsal or postorbicular muscle plexus; and a deep or posttarsal plexus. Furthermore, communicating branches among these plexuses were also spotted.

Conclusions: The study results demonstrated the topographic distribution of the eyelid lymphatic vessels and confirmed the existence of communicating branches. This discovery will be conducive to understanding the route and mechanism by which inflammation of the eyelid spreads and cancer disseminates. It also provides anatomical insights to apply during eyelid surgery with regard to the prevention of possible eyelid lymphatic injury.