Clinical outcomes of transconjunctival extraction of introconal orbital cavernous hemangioma

Objective To assess the selection criteria,surgical approach and complications of transconjunctival extraction of intraconal orbital cavernous hemangioma. Methods Medical records were reviewed for 42 cases of intraconal orbital cavernous hemangiomas that received transconjunctival extraction in our hospital from August 2004 to November 2011. Results There was one case that required lateral orbitotomy,3 cases that required anterior orbitotomy,and 2 cases in which the hemangiomas could not be located and the operation had to be ended to prevent blindness.All other cases were successfully treated.Blindness occurred in 1 case;otherwise there was no major complications observed. Conclusion Transconjunctival extraction of intraconal orbital cavernous hemangioms is a safe and effective surgical procedure.It is important to carefully study the quality,location,and relationship to neighboring tissue of the tumor before the surgery.Surgeon's skill and experience also play an important role in a successful treatment.