The globe and orbital content in enophthalmos are in a backward position. Enophthalmos is evaluated quantitatively with measurement of corneal projection,referenced to the orbital rim,using a ruler or Herthel exophthalmometer. In normal position the measure is 18-20 mm.
The enophthalmos can be due to:
– trauma (orbital walls fracture,i.e. blow-out fracture)
– congenital malformations (i.e. Treacher-Collins Syndrome)
– atrophy of fatty tissue
CT scan and MRI can show globe displacement:
– axial computed tomography can show globe displacement anteroposteriorly and laterally
– coronal scan demonstrates vertical displacement
– sagittal scan shows both anteroposterior and vertical displacement.
Surgery is aimed to recover the shape of the orbit while restoring the orbital volume. In some cases the deficit can be correct by the use of bone grafts or biomaterials.