Transconjunctival Approach: A Safe and Effective Access to Mass Lesions in the Anterior Orbit

Abstract

The orbit is an eloquent organ of the body. Safe surgical access to the orbit could be challenging due to the dense network of critical structures confined to it. There are versatile approaches to different parts of the orbit that could be used by neurosurgeons without causing injury to critical neurovascular structures. In this study, we aimed to present our surgical experience with the transconjunctival approach through the bulbar conjunctiva to anterior intraorbital lesions caused by diverse pathologies. We conducted a retrospective review of cases with intraorbital lesions operated via the transconjunctival approach by the same senior surgeon between 2015 and 2017. All patients were evaluated before the surgery by computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and plain anteroposterior and lateral radiographs. Five patients underwent surgery by the transconjunctival approach through the medial or lateral routes for different pathologies: cavernoma, lymphoma, inflammatory reaction, meningocele, and foreign body. No complications were recorded, and all patients were satisfied with their clinical and esthetic results. The transconjunctival approach is a safe, effective, and time-sparing surgical approach to diverse pathologies in the anterior orbit. Navigation systems enhance the ability to maneuver in selected cases. The transconjunctival approach could be performed in collaboration with ophthalmologists since it provides better esthetic outcomes and higher satisfaction rates in operated patients.