[Orbital decompression for dysthyroid orbitopathy: a review of techniques and indications]

Orbital bony decompression has a definite place in the management of severe manifestations of dysthyroid orbitopathy such as optic neuropathy, exposure keratitis, and exophthalmos. This surgical procedure can be undertaken when medication and radiation therapy fail. Esthetic and functional results are globally satisfying and explain the interest taken in this technique. This article will describe the development of this procedure and will outline the surgical techniques and their complications. It emphasizes the multifactor indications for this procedure.