Management of these tumors usually results in a sophisticated diagnostic evaluation and surgical exploration. Fortunately, most orbital tumors are not malignant and can be treated surgically. This is an autoimmune disease of unknown origin which seems to be more common in patients who smoke cigarettes. As the muscles of the eye slowly enlarge, the eyes push forward and the movement is restricted. The swelling of the muscles can become so severe that the blood flow to the optic nerve is strangled, resulting in slow loss of vision.
Double vision can also result.
Surgical rehabilitation is usually reserved after the eyelid abnormalities have stabilized for at least four months. Acute surgery may be needed to prevent loss of vision from swelling around the optic nerve. Other modalities tried first are Prednisone, Cyclosporin or x-ray therapy. Surgical rehabilitation needs to be individualized and performed in stages. The most common method of orbital expansion to relieve compression of the optic nerve is a two wall decompression which involves removing the bone of the floor of the orbit.