Superior oblique

The superior oblique (Latin: musculus obliquus superior), also called the obliquus superior or superior oblique extraocular muscle, is one of the six extraocular muscles that are in control of eye movements. The actions of the superior oblique result in turning the visual gaze downward and outward.

Origin

The superior oblique originates from the greater wing of the sphenoid bone deep within the medial aspect of the orbit, above the medial margin of the optic canal.

Insertion

The superior oblique inserts into the posterior, superior, and lateral surfaces of the eyeball.

Action

The actions provided by the superior oblique are intorison (internal rotation), depression, and abduction of the eyeball. Thus, the actions of the superior oblique turn the eye downward and outward with medial rotation.

Innervation

The superior oblique is innervated by the trochlear nerve (CN IV).

Blood supply

The superior oblique receives arterial blood supply from the ophthalmic artery.