What is Orbital Decompression Surgery? Orbital decompression surgery is a procedure performed to alleviate pressure within the eye socket, also known as the orbit. The purpose of this surgery is to create more space within the orbit, allowing the eye to be repositioned and reducing symptoms associated with conditions like Graves’ disease or tumors. During […]
Orbital decompression surgery is a procedure performed to alleviate pressure within the eye socket, also known as the orbit. The purpose of this surgery is to create more space within the orbit, allowing the eye to be repositioned and reducing symptoms associated with conditions like Graves’ disease or tumors.
During the surgery, an incision is made in the eyelid or eyebrow to gain access to the orbit. The surgeon then carefully removes a small amount of bone from the orbit, allowing it to expand and relieve pressure. In some cases, the fatty tissue behind the eye may also be removed.
The main benefit of orbital decompression surgery is the relief of symptoms caused by the compressed structures in the eye socket. This includes bulging eyes, double vision, and pain or discomfort. Additionally, this surgery can help to protect the optic nerve from further damage, preserving vision.
However, there are some risks associated with orbital decompression surgery. These include infection, bleeding, damage to the eye or nerves, and complications related to anesthesia. It is important for patients to discuss these risks with their surgeon before deciding to undergo the procedure.
Common reasons for undergoing orbital decompression surgery include Graves’ disease, a condition that causes the thyroid to overproduce hormones and can lead to eye bulging and double vision. Other reasons may include orbital tumors or trauma to the eye socket.
Orbital decompression is a surgical procedure performed for various reasons, primarily in cases of severe Graves’ disease with proptosis. Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland and can lead to an overactive thyroid. Proptosis is a common symptom of Graves’ disease and refers to bulging or protrusion of the eyes due to the inflammation and swelling of the muscles and tissues behind the eyes.
The main reason orbital decompression is performed in severe cases of Graves’ disease with proptosis is to relieve compressive optic neuropathy.
The bulging eyes can exert pressure on the optic nerve, which can lead to a condition called compressive optic neuropathy. This can cause vision impairment, including double vision, blurred vision, and even permanent vision loss if left untreated.
Another reason for orbital decompression is the cosmetic concerns associated with proptosis. The bulging eyes can significantly affect a person’s appearance and self-esteem. By decompressing the orbit, the surgeon can help reduce the protrusion of the eyes and improve the overall aesthetic appearance.
Endoscopic orbital decompression surgery is a procedure used to alleviate pressure and reduce inflammation in the eye socket caused by conditions such as thyroid eye disease. The surgery involves the use of general anesthesia, working through the nose, and the removal of bones in the medial and sometimes inferior orbit.
The patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and immobility throughout the procedure. Once the anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon gains access to the orbit through small incisions made inside the nostrils. This allows for a less invasive approach compared to traditional open surgery techniques.
Using an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at its tip, the surgeon navigates through the nose to reach the eye socket. This provides a clear view of the surgical site and minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues. Through careful dissection, the surgeon removes portions of bones in the medial orbit, creating additional space for the eye and reducing pressure.
In some cases, the surgeon may also remove bone in the inferior orbit to further decompress the eye socket. This is done to alleviate any downward pressure on the eye. If necessary, the surgeon may also make small incisions through the skin to release pressure caused by excessive fat or muscles.
In certain cases where the eye itself requires correction, an eye surgeon may be involved simultaneously to address issues such as muscle positioning or double vision.
After undergoing endoscopic orbital decompression surgery, the recovery process is typically well-managed and relatively speedy. Most patients can expect to stay in the hospital for about one to two nights. During this time, the healthcare team will monitor the patient’s vision closely to ensure that there are no complications or sudden changes. Regular eye examinations will be performed to assess the progress and healing of the eyes and surrounding tissues.
In terms of the surgical technique, endoscopic orbital decompression differs significantly from lateral orbital decompression. Endoscopic surgery involves the insertion of a small camera through a tiny incision, allowing the surgeon to navigate and perform the procedure with minimal visible scarring. As a result, bruising and swelling are generally less pronounced compared to lateral orbital decompression, where larger incisions are made and more tissue is affected.
During the endoscopic orbital decompression surgery, specific bones are typically removed or modified to alleviate pressure on the eyes and create additional space within the orbit. These bones may include the medial wall, lateral wall, floor, and sometimes the roof of the orbit.
In some cases, a patient may require simultaneous or separate surgery conducted by an eye surgeon. This could involve procedures such as eyelid repositioning to improve eye closure or strabismus surgery to correct eye misalignment. The decision to undergo additional surgeries will be based on individual needs and recommendations from the healthcare team.
Orbital decompression surgery is performed to alleviate the symptoms of thyroid eye disease, also known as Graves’ orbitopathy. This surgical procedure aims to reduce bulging of the eyes, improve vision, and enhance eyelid closure. Additionally, it may provide certain cosmetic improvements.
One significant outcome of orbital decompression surgery is the reduction in bulging of the eyes, also known as proptosis. Proptosis can cause significant discomfort and self-consciousness, making it difficult for individuals to feel confident in their appearance. By removing or repositioning the fatty tissue and bones around the eye socket, the surgery can help restore a more normal eye appearance.
Improved vision is another positive outcome of orbital decompression surgery. In some cases, proptosis can lead to the compression or displacement of the optic nerve, resulting in vision impairments. By relieving the pressure on the optic nerve, the surgery can improve visual acuity and overall visual function.
Furthermore, orbital decompression surgery can enhance eyelid closure. Proptosis can cause the eyelids to retract, leading to difficulties in closing the eyes completely. This can cause problems with dryness, irritation, and corneal exposure. By reducing the protrusion of the eyes, the surgery can improve eyelid closure and alleviate associated symptoms.
While complete reversal of all signs of orbitopathy is not always possible, stabilization of vision and improvement in symptoms can generally be expected. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations for the outcomes of the surgery.
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with orbital decompression surgery. These may include infection, bleeding, adverse reactions to anesthesia, damage to surrounding structures, and potential changes in appearance. It is crucial for patients to discuss these risks with their surgeon and make an informed decision regarding the surgery.
The main purpose of Orbital Decompression Surgery is to alleviate the symptoms associated with certain eye conditions, such as Graves’ disease and thyroid eye disease. These conditions can cause the eyeballs to become protruded and may result in various complications, including impaired vision, double vision, and pain.
In summary, the section on Orbital Decompression Surgery utilizes endoscopic tools to effectively decompress the orbital cavity thus alleviating your symptoms. If you are need to to undergo an orbital decompression procedure, please contact Dr. Bidar’s office for an appointment.