What is a Orbital Disease?
An enormous spectrum of problems occur in the tissues around and behind the eye – the orbit. The most common disease processes in the orbit are inflammatory diseases– thyroid eye disease and the idiopathic inflammatory “pseudotumors”. These are non-malignant processes that have an enormous range of presentations – acute or chronic, painless or miserable. Other types of problems also occur in the orbit – tumors both benign and malignant, congenital abnormalities (birth defects), and diseases which spread from the adjacent sinuses and brain.
Treatments for Orbital Diseases
Many different treatments can be required in the orbit– both surgical and medical therapies can be needed. Drugs such as corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive agents can have a role. Occasionally, radiotherapy is used in the treatment of these benign (non-cancerous) conditions. These complex conditions often require a team approach with multiple other subspecialties– rheumatology, internal medicine, radiation oncology, radiology, neurosurgery, and otolaryngology. Our physicians have long-established working relationships with specialists in these fields in Edmonton and Alberta to allow for a team approach.
Explore More Conditions
We specialize in diagnosing and treating a variety of complex eye conditions that can affect both vision and appearance. From Orbital Disease and Thyroid Eye Disease to Lacrimal Disease and the management of Anophthalmic Socket, our expert care is tailored to restore function and improve quality of life. Explore the various conditions below to learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatments available for these conditions, and how our team can support you on your journey to better eye health.
Lacrimal Disease (Tearing)
The nasolacrimal duct is the tear duct system that drains the normal tears away from the eye and into the sinuses. There is a need for constant balance– too many tears produce the annoying symptoms of blurred vision and a wet face; too few tears create the misery of dry eyes.
Anophthalmic Socket
Tragically, eyes are still lost to trauma, tumours, and severe ocular diseases. The role of enucleation (removal of an eye) and the reconstructive work of socket repair using implants are integral parts of our practice. We work in tandem with excellent ocularists in town who create custom prostheses.
