Inferolateral microsurgical approach to the orbit: an anatomical study.

Using detailed cadaveric dissection this study has demonstrated the increase in exposure by using the inferolateral microsurgical approach for neurosurgical and ophthalmological access. The approach to surgical exploration of this region is divided into three steps. The neural, muscular and vascular structures of each step are discussed. We think that, with an intimate understanding of the anatomy of the orbit, many large intraorbital lesions located in the muscle cone and the inferior nasal compartment of the orbit can be safely removed through inferolateral orbitotomy.