Management of orbital fractures: challenges and solutions

Abstract

Jennings R Boyette,1 John D Pemberton,2 Juliana Bonilla-Velez1 1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 2Department of Ophthalmology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA Abstract: Many specialists encounter and treat orbital fractures. The management of these fractures is often challenging due to the impact that they can have on vision. Acute treatment involves a thorough clinical examination and management of concomitant ocular injuries. The clinical and radiographic findings for each individual patient must then be analyzed for the need for surgical intervention. Deformity and vision impairment can occur from these injuries, and while surgery is intended to prevent these problems, it can also create them. Therefore, surgical approach and implant selection should be carefully considered. Accurate anatomic reconstruction requires complete assessment of fracture margins and proper implant contouring and positioning. The implementation of new technologies for implant shaping and intraoperative assessment of reconstruction will hopefully lead to improved patient outcomes. Keywords: orbital fracture, orbital blowout, orbital floor