Small, hook-like bony projection of the lacrimal bone
The lacrimal hamulus is a small, hook-like bony projection of the lacrimal bone. It is a continuation of the posterior lacrimal crest. It articulates with the lacrimal tubercle of the maxilla, and completes the upper orifice of the lacrimal canaliculus. It sometimes exists as a separate piece, and is then called the lesser lacrimal bone.
Structure.
The lacrimal hamulus is a small, hook-like bony projection of the lacrimal bone. It is a continuation of the posterior lacrimal crest of the lacrimal bone. It articulates with the lacrimal tubercle of the maxilla. This completes the upper orifice of the lacrimal canaliculus.
Relations.
The lacrimal hamulus is usually around 9 mm from the infraorbital foramen, around 20 mm from the inferior orbital fissure, and around 31 mm from the beginning of the posterior lacrimal crest.
Variation.
The lacrimal hamulus develops from its own site of primary ossification of cartilage. Because of this, it sometimes exists as a separate piece, and is then called the lesser lacrimal bone.
References.
 "This article incorporates text in the public domain from the 20th edition of" Gray's Anatomy "(1918)"