Abstract
We conducted a retrospective analysis of 22 patients having orbital penetrating gunshot
wounds treated over a 4-years period. The neurological status and the site of injury
for each patient are evaluated in this study. We propose a practical protocol in the
management of these orbital foreign bodies. Surgical treatment was performed in 4
patients (had functional deficit) with medial orbitotomy in 2, lateral orbitotomy
in 1, and superior orbitotomy in 1. 3 of them are improved, in one case the blindness
has been continued. 18 patients were treated conservatively and all of them are improved.
All patients were followed-up for 2 years with cranial X-rays and CT scans. Neurological
sequelae were regressed which existed before the surgery. In conservatively treated
cases, infection, migration and functional deficit were not seen. In conclusion, orbital
penetrating gunshot wounds must be evaluated precisely by the surgeon and this evaluation
sets the guidelines for management. The operation should be reserved for the patients
in whom the necrotic soft tissues or orbital damages restrict ocular movements.
Key words
Foreign Body - Gunshot Wound - Orbit - Orbitotomy
