Influence of orbital decompression to nasal function

Introduction:

Orbital decompression is a well-established therapy for Graves' orbitopathy resistant to conservative treatment. Most surgical techniques are based on resecting the medial orbital wall. Whether this procedure influences the nasal function is unknown yet, but very important to the patients' postoperative quality of life.

Methods:

In a prospective study, 25 patients were included. These patients were subjected to orbital decompression due to Graves' orbitopathy between 2014 and 2016. Sense of smell (Sniffin' Test) and nasal airflow (anterior rhinomanometry) were tested pre- and six weeks postoperatively. In addition, postoperative incidence of sinus infections, persistent pressure pain and infraorbital hypoesthesia were assessed with a questionnaire.

Results:

The olfactory performance showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) after surgery, while the nasal airflow significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Sinus infection occurred in three, infraorbital sensibility disorder in eight cases within the first six weeks after surgery. No persistent pressure pain was recorded.

Discussion:

Orbital decompression including a medial wall resection can lead to a decrease in nasal airflow. The patients have to be informed about this fact before surgery. The olfactory performance is not impaired by the procedure. Other complications like sinus infections or infraorbital hypoesthesia have a low incidence.

Publication History

Publication Date:
18 April 2018 (online)