Lateral canthotomy orbitotomy: a rapid approach to the orbit

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neurosurgery
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Accessing pathologies in the lateral orbit often requires complex surgical approaches.
• Minimally invasive techniques are crucial for reducing patient morbidity and improving recovery times.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a technique for accessing the lateral orbit via horizontal lateral canthotomy.
• To describe the accessible orbital territory and surgical duration of this approach.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective, non-interventional descriptive case series.
• Inclusion of 18 patients with pathologies lateral to or within the optic nerve.
• Surgical approach involved horizontal lateral canthotomy without lid detachment or bone removal.

Main Results:

• 18 patients with diverse pathologies including tumors and inflammatory conditions were treated.
• Median surgical time was 36 minutes (range 23-75 minutes).
• The technique preserved the lateral canthal tendon attachments and resulted in rapid recovery with minimal inflammation.

Conclusions:

• Lateral canthotomy orbitotomy is a rapid, safe, and minimally disruptive approach for lateral orbital and optic nerve pathologies.
• The technique allows for flexibility in exposure and avoids complications associated with more invasive procedures.
• This method facilitates efficient surgical access with favorable post-operative outcomes.