How Is an Orbital Fracture Treated?
First, a complete eye exam is performed by an ophthalmologist to assess the extent of the eye injuries. Sometimes, eye injuries, such as eyeball and eyelid lacerations, can occur as a result of the blowout fracture. If the ophthalmologist suspects the presence of an orbital fracture, diagnosis of orbital fractures is best made by a CT scan. Once the fracture is reviewed on the CT scan and the patient is examined, Dr. Sherman will discuss what types of treatment are needed to repair the orbital fracture for best results. Treatment for a blowout fracture of the orbit includes cold compresses, pain medications, and wound irrigation and cleansing. Some injuries may require surgical repair to realign bones and restore normal eye movement. If there is only an orbital fracture and no other significant injury, surgical orbital fracture repair is often performed in an outpatient surgery center, with the patient usually being allowed to go home one to two hours after surgery. Dr. Sherman and Dr. Melson perform an advanced technique for orbital blowout fracture repair, which is all done through a hidden incision behind the lower eyelid, minimizing visible scars. They also use a variety of the latest thin orbital implants to seal the hole in the orbit caused by the fracture. This surgery to place an orbital implant for orbital fracture repair often leaves little or no scarring, and the recovery period is usually brief.