Endoscopic endonasal orbital and optic nerve decompression for traumatic orbital injuries: A review of outcome

Abstract

IntroductionOrbital and optic nerve decompression has evolved over the years from an open surgery initially, to the current endoscopic approach. The current endoscopic approach is popularized on the idea of a safer surgery with better or similar outcome compared to open surgery.AimTo review the outcomes of endoscopic endonasal orbital and optic nerve decompression for traumatic orbital injuries in the Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Department of a tertiary referral centre.Material and methodsA retrospective review of data on orbital and optic nerve decompression which was done on a total of 10 eyes involving 9 patients from July 2015 to December 2017 were collected. Data that were collected includes demographic data, visual assessment, time to surgery and surgical outcomes with review of patients’ status within three months postoperatively.Results and discussionAmong the 9 patients operated, four presented with diplopia, another four with blurring of vision (BOV) and one with both the symptoms. Our review shows complete resolution of diplopia in 2 patients with another 3 reporting improvement in the symptom. Among the 5 patients with visual acuity impairment, 3 patients reported improvement while another 2 showed no worsening. There were no surgical complications reported throughout the study.ConclusionsEndoscopic endonasal orbital and optic nerve decompression continues to evolve with increasing application in our surgical practice. Excellent outcomes in patients’ status postoperatively should encourage us to consider endoscopic endonasal orbital and optic nerve decompression as the surgical approach of choice for such cases.