Silent Danger Lurking in Your Sinuses: The Aggressive Infection that Threatens Your Sight
EYE SOCKET (ORBITAL) INFECTION
Orbital infection, or orbital cellulitis, is an aggressive, sight threatening process. Usually arising from a nearby sinus infection, this situation must be treated swiftly and aggressively with antibiotics and often surgery. Close follow up and monitoring is required to treat these infections, but is typically successful. Of note, not all infections occur as an extension of sinusitis. This can also occur after trauma to the eyelid, eye or eye socket as well as in patients whose immune system is challenged.
FACIAL INJURIES
Facial injuries often result in fractures to the eye socket and cheek bones, along with lacerations involving the eyelids. Careful reconstruction of these injuries is important to restore the natural shape and symmetry of the face, as well as ensure the normal functioning of the eyelids.
EYE SOCKET TUMORS
In both children and adults, a variety of tumors can occur in the eye socket. Some grow slowly, and go unnoticed while others can grow rapidly; impairing vision and causing even greater problems. CT scans and MRI’s are the best method for detecting and differentiating these growths prior to having surgery. Once the location is identified, along with the general characteristics of the lesion, a treatment plan can be created. In some instances we can treat these tumors on their own, often as an outpatient. On the other hand, aggressive tumors may require the help of other surgical specialists and inpatient hospital treatment.
Who Should Treat Orbital Disease?
The orbit is a small, compact and complex structure. Oculo-Facial surgeons have undertaken the extra training to deal with the nuances of treating eye socket disease and injuries. When choosing a surgeon to evaluate and treat your orbital problem, look for an ophthalmic facial plastic & reconstructive surgeon who specializes in the eyelid, orbit, and tear drain surgery.