Orbital surgery includes the management of orbital tumours, the treatment of orbital fractures and orbital decompressions. Orbital decompression surgery is one of the treatment modalities for Thyroid Eye Disease
Orbital Surgery
Symptoms and management of orbital tumours
Orbital or eye tumours are abnormal growths in the internal area around the eye. They can often occur spontaneously and can pose a serious health risk.
Orbital tumours may push the eye forward creating a bulging of the eye called proptosis. This may make it difficult to close the eye completely. If it is malignant, it may spread to other parts of your body.
Symptoms of an orbital tumour include:
- Increased discomfort or pain around the eye
- Decreased vision in one eye
- Double vision
- Bulging forward of the eyeball
- Droopy or swollen eyelid
- Inability to close an eyelid or move one eye in sync with the other
- A scratchy or irritating feeling on the surface of the eye
It is imperative that you consult your specialist immediately should you experience any of these symptoms. They will examine you carefully and devise a management plan. For better visualization of the tumour a CT or MRI may be performed.
Treatment of orbital fractures
If you are diagnosed with an orbital fracture, you will receive the initial treatment and follow up care and in severe cases, surgical intervention. They are usually a common result of blunt force trauma which can include an assault, a motor vehicle accident or a sports injury.
It is important to note that not all orbital fractures will require repair. Your oculoplastic surgeon may observe, monitor and advise you on the necessary precautions to take after your diagnosis. If you are diagnosed with an orbital fracture, you will receive the initial treatment, follow-up care, and in severe cases, possibly surgical intervention.
Some orbital fractures will not require any treatment other than applying ice compresses. However, it is important to see the ophthalmologist soon after the injury as some repairs will be more successful if performed soon after the trauma. Your ophthalmologist will warn you to avoid blowing your nose and will prescribe systemic antibiotics and a decongestant. It is advisable to also avoid situations that may increase your chances of sneezing
Orbital decompressions
Orbital decompression surgery is done to remove the bones and in some cases, the fat in the eye socket. It relieves orbital pressure and expands the eye socket allowing the eyeball to settle back. It is most commonly performed on patients with thyroid eye disease also known as Graves’ eye disease.
Orbital decompression surgery is performed under general anaesthesia meaning you will sleep during the operation.
Your ophthalmologist will evaluate you before your surgery and also discuss the risks and benefits of orbital decompression. Your pain will be managed with medication to help reduce swelling and the chance of getting an infection.
Orbital decompression surgery involves incisions in your natural skin creases and should therefore not cause marked scarring post-operatively.
Orbital Surgery for patients in KZN
Dr. Ladner is an ophthalmologist that practices at Parklands Hospital in Overport, Durban as well as at the Kloof Medical Centre in KZN. He has a special interest in oculoplastic procedures. Should you, or someone you know experience any vision problems, set up an appointment with Dr. Ladner today