[TA] one of approximately seven branches of the ophthalmic artery that pass around the optic nerve to supply the eyeball. Dividing into some 15-20 branches, they penetrate the sclera adjacent to the optic nerve, supplying the choroid and ciliary processes. Anastomoses: with central retinal artery and long and anterior ciliary arteries (at the ora serrata). SYN: arteria ciliaris posterior brevis [TA].