[Ethmoidectomy and orbital decompression in endocrine ophthalmopathy].

23 orbita decompression operations were performed in patients suffering from endocrine exophthalmos (Grave's disease) after normalization of thyroid metabolism and systemic corticoid therapy remained unsuccessful. We developed a modification of an external ethmoidectomy. The lamina of the middle nasal concha is carefully preserved, any opening to the nasal cavity is closed. Flap door incisions of the periorbita complete this procedure. Results are good and were followed up for a period of 30 months. The operation resulted in prompt restitution of normal eye position with fast normalization of visual acuity and field. Squint surgery was done in addition.