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Published on: October 27, 2020
Orbital Aging: A Computed Tomography-Based Study of 240 Orbits.
Shoaib Ugradar1, Narek Manoukian1, Ariel Azhdam1
1From Stein Eye Institute, Bioengineering Interdepartmental Program, and Doheny Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles; and University of California, Irvine.
Age-related changes in the orbit differ between sexes. Female bony orbits expand, positioning the globe forward, while male orbits show increased fat and posterior rim movement.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Gerontology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Previous research on age-related orbital changes yielded conflicting results.
- Objective characterization of these changes is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To objectively characterize age-related changes in bony orbital dimensions, soft tissue volume, and globe position.
- To compare these changes between male and female participants of different age groups.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 120 participants (240 orbits) aged 20-30 and 60-75 years.
- High-accuracy imaging software used for computed tomographic scans and 3D reconstructions.
- Measurements included bony orbital dimensions, soft tissue (fat and muscle) volume, and anterior globe position.
Main Results:
- In females, increased bony orbital volume, fat volume, central width, and anterior globe position with age.
- In males, increased fat volume and central height, with posterior movement of the lateral rim.
- No significant difference in anterior globe position between age groups in males.
Conclusions:
- The female bony orbit expands with age, leading to a more anterior globe position.
- The male bony orbital volume remains stable, with posterior lateral rim migration.
- Sex-specific differences in orbital aging are evident.
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