Name of the Procedure:

Orbitotomy without bone flap (frontal or transconjunctival approach); with drainage only

Summary

An orbitotomy without bone flap is a surgical procedure where the surgeon creates an opening in the orbit (eye socket) to drain fluid or blood. This procedure can be performed through the frontal area or the conjunctiva (the membrane that lines the eyelid) and does not involve removing any bone.

Purpose

This procedure addresses conditions involving fluid accumulation or hemorrhage within the orbit, which can cause pressure on the eye and lead to pain, vision problems, or eye movement issues. The primary goal is to relieve this pressure and prevent further complications.

Indications

• Orbital hemorrhage (bleeding within the eye socket)
• Orbital abscess (a pus-filled infection)
• Severe orbital edema (swelling) Patients experiencing significant pain, vision impairment, or other symptoms due to fluid accumulation within the orbit are likely candidates for this procedure.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Blood tests or imaging studies (e.g., CT or MRI scans) may be required for diagnostic purposes.
• Medications may need to be adjusted; patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given local or general anesthesia, depending on the case.
2. A small incision is made in the specified approach (frontal or transconjunctival).
3. The surgeon accesses the orbit without removing any bone and drains the accumulated fluid or blood.
4. The incision is then closed with sutures. Tools: Scalpel, suction drainage setup. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia for minor procedures; general anesthesia for more extensive drainage.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital or surgical center.

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist or oculoplastic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)
• Nursing staff

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Scarring
• Vision changes
• Injury to surrounding structures

Complications are managed with appropriate medications and follow-up care.

Benefits

• Relief from pain and pressure
• Improved vision and eye movement
• Prevention of further complications

Benefits are usually realized immediately or within a few days after the procedure.

Recovery

• Patients may need to apply cold compresses to reduce swelling.
• Follow post-operative instructions which may include avoiding strenuous activities.
• Keep the surgical site clean and dry.
• A follow-up visit with the surgeon is typically scheduled within a week. Expected recovery time is 1 to 2 weeks, with some restrictions on activities.

Alternatives

• Medication to reduce swelling or treat infection, though this may not be sufficient for severe cases.
• Observation, in mild cases where the body may reabsorb the fluid naturally.

Pros and cons of alternatives depend on the severity and nature of the condition.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel some discomfort or pressure during recovery.
• Pain is generally manageable with prescribed pain medications.
• Vision may be blurred initially but should improve as recovery progresses. Comfort measures include cold compresses and resting with the head elevated.