The Clinical Aspects of Orbital Fractures Proven by Computed Tomography

ABSTRACT

Computed tomography can be diagnostic with orbital fractures, because it provides detailed visualization of anatomical relationship on both the bones and soft tissues of the orbits. By identifying a group of patient at high risk for enophthalmos and persistent diplopia, we were able to decise the indication of operation. From January 1991 to December 1996, the authors reviewed of 106 consecutive patients(118 eyes)with orbital fractures proven by computed tomography respectively. Among them, 13 patients were repaired surgically. The results were as follows. Orbital fractures occurred most frequently between the ages of 21 and 40 years of men, and the most common cause of those was traffic accident. The incidence of orbital fracture was higher on the left side of orbit. In single wall fractures, the most common involved wall was medial wall, followed by inferior, superior and lateral wall in order. In combined wall fractures, medial and inferior wall fractures were most common. The associated symptoms and signs of orbital fracture were periorbital swelling, lid laceration, diplopia, and enophthalmos in turn. Subciliary approach was used for repair of the fracture. The surgical intervention was done within 2 weeks.