How To Treat Graves' Disease

Orbital Decompression Surgery

Patients with Graves' disease may develop exophthalmos, a condition in which the eyes bulge. In some patients with exophthalmos, vision loss could occur. Orbital decompression surgery can be performed to alleviate exophthalmos, and doctors often recommend it for patients with Graves' disease who have severe exophthalmos that causes chronic eye pain, headaches, or eye irritation. It is also appropriate for patients who have scar tissue over the corneas as a result of exophthalmos. Performed under general anesthesia, the surgery creates more space in the orbit so the eye can return to a normal position. Surgeons work endoscopically through the patient's nose, and the surgery does not involve any incisions. The bones of the medial and inferior orbit are removed, and patients typically stay overnight at the hospital to have their vision monitored. When endoscopic methods are used, external bruising and swelling are usually avoided.

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