Indications and outcomes of orbitotomy in a tertiary hospital in North-Central Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Orbitotomy is a surgical procedure that helps with having access to the tight orbital space for different purposes. The orbit can be accessed through several incision/approaches, and it can be done for both children and adults if indicated. In most cases, the outcome of orbitotomy is good. The study seeks to determine the indications, possible complications and the outcomes of orbitotomy in a tertiary hospital in north-central Nigeria.
Method: This was a retrospective study spanning a 10-year period from 2011 to 2020. Hospital records of patients who had orbitotomy were retrieved and data collected for the indications and outcomes of orbitotomy. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23). Frequencies, simple percentage, fishers exact and chi-square were used to compare proportions.
Results: A total of 28 patients medical records were retrieved and analyzed Orbitotmy was performed in all age groups, however, 21(75%) out of the 28 cases were done in individuals less than 30 years of age. More males had orbitotomy 15(53.6%), and there was a slight predominance of the left eye 15(53.6%). The commonest presentation seen was proptosis 15(53.6%), while dermoid cyst was the commonest etiology in 39.3%. Computed tomographic scan was useful in clinching the diagnosis while histological examination helped in confirming the diagnosis. More than half (75%) of the patients had a transcutaneous incision, and there was no drop in visual acuity following orbitotomy. The commonest complication was eyelid scar in 15(53.5%) patients.
Conclusion: Orbitotomy is a safe procedure with good visual and cosmetic outcome, with the transconjunctival approach being more cosmetically acceptable.