Injuries to the eye socket bones

Eye is one of the key senses that is considered very vital and held close to heart. In case of injuries to the eyes, careful and critical evaluation is performed by a maxillofacial surgeon in addition to a specialist (Ophthalmologist). Initial inspection should not involve manipulation or touching the injured area till fractures of bones around the eye are ruled out.

An expert will ask to move the patient’s eye in all direction to ensure full extent of function, look for the shape, color and vision of the eyeball. Special tests may be performed as needed. The fractures of the bones of the eye need to be assessed by imaging techniques.

Fractures of orbital (eye socket) bones could be of different types depending on the nature of impact, extent of injury, age of the patient besides numerous other factors. These orbital fractures could be anywhere in the adjacent area including cheekbone (zygoma), above the eye, below the eye, or in the bones surrounding the eye socket. Early diagnosis of these fractures is important to avoid some later complications and sequel. Laceration around eyes needs to be carefully worked on as contraction of scars may itself cause loss of vision.

CASE I

These are photographs of a man who suffered fracture of the bones of his right eye socket as the result of a sports injury. A CT scan revealed a fracture of the floor of the right eye and cheek bone. The fractured bone was skillfully reconstructed using a sophisticated custom made Titanium mesh. Following surgery, the patient recovered well with no disturbances in vision and appearance.

CASE II

In a vehicular accident, the patient fractured the bone that forms the floor of the right eye socket. The fracture site was surgically exposed and stabilized using a bone plate. He recovered well subsequently.