Definition of Orbital fracture

Orbital fracture: A break in one of the bones that make up the orbit. Since the orbit is the seat of the globe (the eye), an orbital fracture can be a serious, sight-threatening break. (Goggles are recommended for racquetball and handball players because of significant risk of orbital fracture from the impact of a speeding ball.)

The orbit is complexly constituted. It is made up of parts of six bones: the frontal, ethmoidal, lacrimal, and sphenoid bones and the maxilla and zygoma. A break in the orbit portion of one or more of these six bones is an orbital fracture.

Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11997
Last Editorial Review: 6/14/2012