The anterior ciliary arteries are derived from the muscular branches of the ophthalmic artery.

The anterior ciliary arteries branches of the ophthalmic artery and run to the front of the eyeball in company with the extraocular muscles.

The anterior ciliary arteries are seven small arteries in each eye-socket that supply the conjunctiva, sclera and the rectus muscles.

Additional branches of the ophthalmic artery include the ciliary arteries, which branch into the anterior ciliary arteries.

Each rectus muscle receives blood from two anterior ciliary arteries, except for the lateral rectus muscle, which receives blood from only one.