Lateral orbitotomy approach to orbital tumors: report of 10 cases

Lateral orbitotomy is a well-known approach for lesions of the lateral orbital cone. It is still appropriate for laterally situated tumors although contemporary cranial base approaches were defined and developed within the last decades.

Here we report 10 orbital lesions operated with lateral orbitotomy, nine of which were extraconal. Cholesterol granuloma, arachnoid cyst, pleomorphic adenoma, malign epithelial tumor, dermoid cyst, inflammatory granuloma and cavernoma were the pathologies encountered.

The extent of lateral orbitotomy should depend on the size, consistency and nature of the lesion for easy removal and less bony resection. In this regard, contrast enhanced CT scans give useful information for operative strategy. The success of surgery can be improved and cosmetic problems can be minimized if meticulous care is taken during orbital rim resection.

Although there is a wide range of histopathological diagnosis for orbital tumors, lateral orbitotomy is a safe approach, particularly if the lesions are extraconal.