Schlemm’s canal

anatomy

Also known as: canal of Schlemm

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

Schlemm's canal is a ringlike passageway in the human eye that plays a crucial role in maintaining intraocular pressure. This canal is located at the junction of the cornea and sclera, encircling the anterior chamber.

The aqueous humor, a clear fluid that nourishes the avascular tissues of the eye like the lens and cornea, is formed by the ciliary body. It flows from the posterior chamber through the pupil into the anterior chamber. From there, it drains through the trabecular meshwork into Schlemm's canal.12

This drainage is essential for preventing a buildup of fluid, which can lead to elevated intraocular pressure and conditions like glaucoma, a leading cause of vision loss. The normal intraocular pressure is approximately 15 mm of mercury above atmospheric pressure.12

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glaucoma
…into a circular channel, the canal of Schlemm, from which the aqueous humour flows (by way of vessels called aqueous veins) into blood vessels. Blockage of the aqueous humour flow causes increased pressure in the posterior chamber, and this pressure is transmitted by way of the vitreous to the optic…
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…into a circular channel, the canal of Schlemm, from which the aqueous humour flows (by way of vessels called aqueous veins) into blood vessels. Blockage of the aqueous humour flow causes increased pressure in the posterior chamber, and this pressure is transmitted by way of the vitreous to the optic…
Read More