Selective endoscopic decompression of the orbital apex for dysthyroid optic neuropathy.
OBJECTIVE
To introduce the concept of selective endoscopic decompression of the orbital apex for dysthyroid optic neuropathy and present surgical outcomes.


METHODS
Prospective case series.


METHODS
Consecutive patients undergoing urgent endoscopic orbital apex decompression for dysthyroid optic neuropathy were studied prospectively. Surgical indications consisted of retrobulbar optic neuropathy with radiologic evidence of apical crowding in the setting of Graves' disease. Pre- and postoperative parameters assessed included exophthalmometry, visual acuity, presence or absence of exposure keratitis, diplopia, an afferent papillary defect, and Ishihara color plate testing.


RESULTS
In all patients, visual acuity was improved or was stabilized by selective orbital apex decompression. Preoperative afferent papillary defects were reversed in all but one patient. Patients with decreased color vision by Ishihara color plate testing had postoperative improvement in their scores. No patients developed postoperative diplopia. An average of 3.1 mm of ocular recession was achieved.


CONCLUSIONS
Selective decompression of the orbital apex spares the anteromedial and inferior orbital walls that are typically removed in a standard endoscopic orbital decompression. This focused approach successfully addresses compressive optic neuropathy, while minimizing the risk of postoperative diplopia or delayed sinus outflow obstruction. In patients with progressing dysthyroid optic neuropathy without diplopia this modified procedure should be considered. Laryngoscope, 2009.
Chu
Eugene A
EA
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Miller
Neil R
NR
Lane
Andrew P
AP
D003117:Color Vision Defects / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery; D019299:Decompression, Surgical / Q000379:methods*; D018450:Disease Progression; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D049970:Graves Ophthalmopathy / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009408:Nerve Compression Syndromes / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D009901:Optic Nerve Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D009915:Orbit / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011681:Pupil Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery; D012008:Recurrence; D012086:Reoperation