Long Posterior Ciliary Arteries

Description

Running within the sclera, the paired long posterior ciliary arteries enter the globe near the optic nerve and course anteriorly between the sclera and choroid toward the ciliary body. Their red arterial channels track forward on the nasal and temporal sides, giving a clear sense of the posterior to anterior trajectory that distinguishes them from the shorter, more segmental posterior ciliary branches. Anteriorly, they approach the root of the iris, where they contribute to the major arterial circle of the iris in the region of the ciliary muscle and ciliary processes. The cornea, blue iris, and central pupil remain visible on the anterior aspect, while a vascular layer spreads across the posterior globe. Clinical anatomy of these vessels matters because they are a principal supply to the anterior uvea, and compromised flow can contribute to anterior segment ischemia after extensive rectus muscle surgery. Surgeons also keep their course in mind during scleral buckling, transscleral diode cyclophotocoagulation, and intravitreal or sub-Tenon approaches, where inadvertent injury can lead to suprachoroidal hemorrhage or focal choroidal ischemia. Small structures, big consequences. Use this artwork to support ophthalmology teaching on uveal blood supply, to illustrate the arterial input to the iris and ciliary body in anatomy or optometry courses, or to anchor figures in manuscripts and patient-facing materials on uveitis, ischemic syndromes, and anterior segment surgical risk. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.