The lacrimal nerve is the smallest branch of the ophthalmic nerve (V1), which in turn originates from the trigeminal nerve.

Anatomy

The lacrimal nerve runs through the superior orbital fissure into the orbit.

Function

The lacrimal nerve provides sensory innervation to the area of the temporal angle of the eye. Through a communicating branch, postganglionic parasympathetic-secretory fibers are supplied to it from the zygomatic nerve for the innervation of the lacrimal gland[^1].

Figure

Orbital nerves — Lateral view of the neural structures in the orbit. Image adapted from Grays Anatomy.

Lacrimal nerve

Anatomy

Function

Figure