Orbital fracture (broken bone)
About Orbital fracture (broken bone)
Fracture of the bones around the eye. Orbital fractures usually occur from head or facial trauma. There are four walls to the orbit and the most commonly fractured is the inferior (bottom) wall. Fractures can involve the sinus coverings and/or base of the skull; fractures in these areas can result in dripping of cerebrospinal fluid from the nose. (This fluid looks like water.) The eye muscles can be trapped in an orbital fracture, causing double vision.Symptoms
Eye pain, bruising around the eye. Pain with eye movement, double vision, inability to fully move an eye, air in the soft tissue of the face, clear fluid leaking from the nose..Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. X-rays can be done but do not offer enough detail to delineate the full extent of the injury. A CT scan is typically done for more information and can also demonstrate an associated brain injury.Common tests: CT Scan.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Some fractures are only observed and treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn) and pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol). Fractures that entrap eye muscles causing double vision may need surgery.Medical specialties
Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) · Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology) · Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Orbital fracture (broken bone).