Intramuscular innervation of rectus extraocular muscles revisited histologically

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to explore the intramuscular innervation patterns of rectus extraocular muscles (REOMs) comprehensively. By supplementing existing knowledge using histological techniques to enrich current research findings, we endeavor to provide a holistic perspective on the complexities of REOM innervation. Material and methods: Ten REOMs (superior, inferior, medial, and lateral) were collected from adult human cadavers of both sexes. All samples were carefully dissected to preserve muscle integrity and architecture and proceeded using H&E staining. Results: Within each REOM, the intramuscular innervation is characterized by a dense network of motor sub-branches. Muscular sub-branches are distributed evenly within each REOM's mid-length cross-section. Conclusions: In conclusion, the intramuscular innervation of the rectus extraocular muscles is a highly complex and organized system crucial for precisely controlling eyeball movements.

Keywords

• Extraocular rectus muscles
• Intramuscular innervation
• Inferior rectus muscle
• Lateral rectus muscle
• Medial rectus muscle
• Superior rectus muscle