Tumors of the paranasal sinus invading the orbit

Abstract

Invasion of the orbit by tumors of the paranasal sinus represents an advanced state of disease. Prognosis has hardly improved in recent decades, despite multimodal therapeutic approaches. Complete resection of the tumor still remains the most promising therapy. Orbital exenteration implies adramatic event for the patient's psyche and quality of life. If the eye that would have to be exenterated is the only one remaining with sufficient vision, exenteration should be abandoned in consensus with the patient. Aesthetic improvements following exenteration can be achieved by surgical and prosthetic techniques. The method of prosthesis fixation needs to be determined with respect to the patients' individual expectations and manual abilities. The main aspects of functional rehabilitation are good local cleanability and sufficient nasal breathing without encrusted mucus, which can be achieved by restoring the natural laminar airflow. Tumors of the paranasal sinus with orbital invasion represent adiagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The information regarding prognosis, therapeutic approaches, post-therapeutic quality of life, and rehabilitation options should be thoroughly discussed by patients and therapists prior to treatment.