Orbital fractures, also known as fractures of the eye socket, are common injuries that occur when there is trauma to the bones surrounding the eye. These fractures can range from minor cracks to more severe breaks that require immediate medical attention. Because the eye socket (orbital cavity) plays a crucial role in protecting the eye, any injury to it can potentially affect vision, eye movement, and the overall appearance of the face.

Oculoplasty Surgeon

What Are Orbital Fractures?

Orbital fractures refer to breaks or cracks in the bones surrounding the eye, which form the eye socket or orbit. The orbit is made up of several bones, including the frontal bone, maxillary bone, zygomatic bone, and others, all of which work together to protect the eye. When any of these bones are fractured due to trauma, it is referred to as an orbital fracture.

Causes of Orbital Fractures

Orbital fractures are often the result of significant trauma to the face or head. Common causes of orbital fractures include:

• Sports Injuries: Contact sports like boxing, football or hockey, where the face is vulnerable to blows, can lead to orbital fractures.
• Accidents and Falls: Car accidents, falls, or other types of accidents can cause severe facial trauma and orbital fractures.
• Assaults or Physical Violence: Fights or physical assaults involving punches or blows to the face can also result in orbital fractures.
• Workplace Injuries: Certain professions that expose individuals to risks of facial trauma, such as construction workers or law enforcement officers, may see orbital fractures more frequently.
• Bicycle or Pedestrian Accidents: A fall or collision involving a bicycle, skateboard, or while walking can result in significant facial injuries, including orbital fractures.

Symptoms of Orbital Fractures

The symptoms of orbital fractures can vary depending on the severity and location of the injury. Common symptoms include:

• Pain: Immediate pain around the eye and face following trauma is one of the first signs of an orbital fracture.
• Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising around the eyes (often referred to as ‘black eyes’) are common after orbital fractures.
• Vision Problems: Blurry vision, double vision (diplopia), or even partial vision loss may occur if the fracture affects the muscles or nerves surrounding the eye.
• Eye Protrusion (Exophthalmos): In some cases, the eye may protrude or bulge out from the socket due to the fracture and swelling. As the swelling subsides, the eye may appear sunken inside (enophthalmos).
• Restricted Eye Movement: Difficulty moving the eye or pain when attempting to look in certain directions may indicate damage to the muscles around the eye.
• Numbness Around the Eye: Numbness or tingling around the eye and cheek area may occur if the fracture affects the nerves that supply the region.
• Periorbital Hematoma: This refers to extensive bruising around the eye area, which is often seen in orbital fractures.

Diagnosis of Orbital Fractures

If an orbital fracture is suspected, it is essential to consult an experienced Oculoplasty Surgeon for an accurate diagnosis. The evaluation typically involves a combination of the following:

• Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination will help assess the visible signs of injury, such as bruising, swelling, or abnormalities in the shape of the eye socket.

Imaging Tests: To get a detailed view of the fracture and assess the extent of the injury, the doctor may recommend imaging tests such as:

• X-rays: Traditional X-rays are often used to identify bone fractures.
• CT Scans: A computed tomography (CT) scan is more detailed than an X-ray and is often used to evaluate complex orbital fractures and damage to surrounding tissues.
• MRI: If there is concern about soft tissue damage or involvement of the optic nerve, an MRI may be used to assess the area further.

Vision Tests: To evaluate the impact of the fracture on vision and eye movement, various vision tests may be conducted, including tests for eye motility and the presence of double vision.

Treatment Options for Orbital Fractures

The treatment for orbital fractures depends on the type and severity of the injury. In some cases, treatment may involve observation and conservative care, while in others, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage. Common treatment options include:

• Conservative Management: In cases of minor fractures that don’t affect the eye muscles or vision significantly, doctors may recommend rest, ice packs, and pain management with over-the-counter medications to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Surgical Intervention: More severe fractures that involve the eye muscles, nerves, or those that cause significant eye misalignment or vision impairment may require surgical intervention. Surgery aims to repair the fracture and restore the normal position of the eye. Procedures may include:

• Orbital Reconstruction Surgery: Involves the use of plates or meshes to stabilize and repair the fractured bones.
• Orbital Floor Repair: This type of surgery is commonly used to repair blowout fractures by re-establishing the integrity of the floor of the orbit.
• Repair of the Orbital Rim: If the orbital rim is fractured, reconstructive surgery is required to restore the structure of the eye socket.

Management of Complications: In some cases, orbital fractures can lead to complications such as double vision, eye muscle restriction, or damage to the optic nerve. These conditions may require additional treatments, including strabismus surgery (to correct eye alignment), corticosteroid injections, or rehabilitation.

Why Choose Dr. Saurbhi Khurana for Orbital Fractures?

Dr. Saurbhi Khurana is a highly skilled Oculoplasty Surgeon with extensive experience in the treatment of orbital fractures and reconstructive surgery of the eye and surrounding structures. Whether the injury is minor or severe, Dr. Khurana uses advanced surgical techniques and a patient-centered approach to ensure the best possible outcomes for her patients.

If you or someone you know has sustained an orbital fracture, it is important to seek immediate medical care to prevent complications and preserve vision. Dr. Khurana is dedicated to providing personalized care and treatment tailored to your specific needs.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you are experiencing symptoms of an orbital fracture or have recently suffered an injury to the face, schedule a consultation with Dr. Saurbhi Khurana today. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical in achieving the best results and ensuring your eye and facial health is restored.