An orbital fracture occurs when there is damage to the bone surrounding the eye, often caused by trauma or injury. This type of fracture can affect the eye, muscles, nerves, and other tissues surrounding the eye. Orbital fractures are typically caused by blunt force trauma, such as a sports injury, car accident, or physical altercation. Although some orbital fractures heal on their own, others can lead to serious, long-term consequences if left untreated. In this article, we will answer the question, “What happens if an orbital fracture goes untreated?” and explore the potential complications and risks of not seeking treatment for this type of injury.
What Happens if an Orbital Fracture Goes Untreated?
Immediate Consequences
The following list presents symptoms that may immediately result from the trauma:
- Persistent pain and swelling: This is one of the first signs of an orbital fracture and can extend to other parts of the face. Ongoing pain and swelling that does not subside could indicate a more serious fracture or complication.
- Vision problems: Blurred vision or double vision are common following an orbital fracture. These symptoms may be temporary but can worsen without treatment. If the muscles around the eye are damaged or the bone is displaced, these vision problems may become permanent and require further intervention.
- Proptosis (bulging of the eye): The protrusion of the eyeball from the socket is often caused by swelling or displaced bone fragments behind the eye. If left untreated, it may cause significant discomfort, difficulty closing the eyelid, and a higher risk of further injury or infection.
These symptoms should not be ignored. Address them as soon as possible.
Long Term Consequences
If orbital fracture remains untreated, in addition to the above symptoms worsening, the following can occur:
- Chronic Double Vision: This is one of the most common long-term consequences of untreated orbital fractures. The eye muscles are damaged or trapped in the fracture site, which can cause the eyes to misalign. As a result, the brain receives conflicting visual signals, leading to persistent double vision.
- Cosmetic Deformities: Deformities such as sunken or misaligned eyes can occur as the bones heal improperly. If an orbital fracture goes untreated, the shape and appearance of the eye can change, leading to facial asymmetry.
- Eye injury and impaired function: The trauma from the fracture can cause damage to the structures of the eye, including the optic nerve.
- Sinus complications: The maxillary sinus can be involved in an orbital fracture, and if left untreated, this can lead to chronic sinus infections or the buildup of fluid in the sinus cavity.
Patients with an orbital fracture need to see a clinician to prevent these complications. These consequences can severely impair a patient’s quality of life, lead to increased pain, and cause long-term psychological distress.
When to Seek Treatment
If you suspect that you have an orbital fracture, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. While some fractures may heal without intervention, more severe fractures require prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications. In the event of a trauma, make sure to consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible for a proper examination.
A doctor may perform a series of tests to assess the severity of the injury. These may include X-rays or CT scans, which provide a detailed view of the fracture and help determine the appropriate course of treatment. The sooner the fracture is addressed, the better the outcome, as early intervention can prevent many of the long-term issues mentioned above.
Treatment Options
Treatment for an orbital fracture will vary depending on the severity and location of the injury. In cases of minor fractures, palliative treatments such as rest, ice packs, and pain management may be sufficient. These measures can help reduce swelling and pain, allowing the bone to heal naturally over time.
However, more severe fractures may require surgical intervention. In these cases, an ophthalmic plastic surgeon will realign the bones, repair damaged tissues, and ensure proper function of the eye muscles. The surgery may also address any cosmetic deformities caused by the fracture.
In Focus Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery
An untreated orbital fracture can lead to a variety of serious, long-term complications, including chronic pain, double vision, cosmetic deformities, and eye injury. Seeking prompt treatment can prevent many of these complications and help ensure the best possible outcome. If you are unsure of how to proceed, consult an ophthalmic plastic surgeon today! Taking early action can help avoid lasting damage and protect your vision and quality of life.