Orbital Hypertelorism
What is Orbital Hypertelorism?
Hypertelorism is an abnormally increased distance between two body parts or organs. In the case of craniofacial abnormalities, orbital hypertelorism is an abnormal distance between the orbits of the eyes wherein the distance of the inner eye corners and the distance between the pupils is greater than normal. It is a symptom of a variety of craniofacial syndromes and anomalies. It is an “exam finding” rather than a condition; however, in isolation, it may warrant treatment. It occurs in various conditions most commonly with mid-line Tessier-type facial clefts and with skull base encephaloceles.
Treatment and Surgery of Hypertelorism
Treatment consists of a combined surgical procedure in collaboration with a neurosurgeon in order to reposition the orbits into the proper position. This usually is performed at around 5-6 years of age for the best results although it may be performed younger under certain circumstances.
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LEARN MOREHypertelorism Correction: What Happens with Growth?
Dr. Jordan Deschamps-Braly co-authored a seminal article on orbital hypertelorism. The report documents 95 hypertelorism corrections performed since 1971. The authors note their findings regarding outcomes, preferred age at surgery, technique, and stability of results with growth.
