Management of Lacrimal and Orbital Disorders

ENT surgeons, and particularly rhinologists, should ideally have a good understanding of lacrimal and orbital disorders. Such disorders include those arising from obstruction of the nasolacrimal drainage system, such as epiphora and dacryocystitis, tumours of the lacrimal sac, orbital complications of rhinosinusitis, thyroid eye disease, orbital compartmental syndrome, and orbital tumours. This chapter focuses on the diagnostic approach, the differential diagnosis, appropriate investigations, and clinical management. The chapter will describe specific points to include in a focused history, and assessment of the ocular and lacrimal system. A multidisciplinary approach to management is described, with appropriate input from Ophthalmology, Oncology, Paediatrics, and Microbiology. The optimal management protocol presented here is also evidence based.