Orbital exenteration

Abstract

Orbital exenteration is defined as the surgical excision of the ocular globe, orbital soft tissues, and ocular adnexa. Total exenteration entails removing the orbital contents in their entirety, whereas a subtotal exenteration spares some portion of the posterior orbital soft tissues. In extended exenteration, removal of bone and/or adjacent structures is also performed. Because the operation results in permanent vision loss and significant facial deformity, it is usually reserved for the treatment of life-threatening or progressively destructive disease processes, such as high-grade or advanced malignancies or invasive infections. In cases where exenteration is contemplated, consideration should be given to management alternatives, including medical therapy and chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or observation.