Orbital decompression for Grave's disease leaving the periosteum intact.

A prospective trial was carried out to determine whether or not transorbital floor and medial wall decompression without opening the orbital periosteum would relieve compressive optic neuropathy in patients with Grave's disease. In four orbits (three patients), the procedure was performed, and in all cases, the vision returned to 20/30 or better. All other parameters of optic nerve function improved as well. No patient had worsening of ocular motility that was attributable to the surgery. The amount of retroplacement of the globe may be less than with standard orbital decompression.