Treatment of postenucleation orbital cysts

Conjunctival cysts of the orbit may be an early or late sequela of enucleation. The most frequent presentation is the inability to retain the external prosthesis. Treatment by excision, marsupialization, or injection of absolute alcohol (95% ethanol) is discussed. Injection of absolute alcohol is advocated because no additional surgical procedure is required. Postulated mechanisms include conjunctival implantation, incarceration, and dehiscence with epithelial downgrowth.