The area, or socket, behind your eye is called the orbit. It protects the eyeball and contains bone, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels, any of which may develop a tumor or inflammation.
This can cause pain, redness, a bulging eyeball, or vision disturbances. Your optic nerve runs through the orbit, carrying signals from the eye to the brain.
Our approach
Patients diagnosed with orbital tumors and inflammations have the benefit of working with one of the largest ophthalmology programs in the United States. These experts provide sophisticated technology and compassionate care for you and your child. Our oculoplastic surgeons are specially trained in the delicate work of plastic surgery around the eyes including orbital surgery.
For small orbital tumors, your physician may choose to watch it over time. But those causing visual changes, discomfort, or disfigurement can be removed surgically. Many tumors can be removed with small incisions hidden in the upper or lower eyelid. If a tumor is found to be malignant, you may be treated with radiation or chemotherapy.
Many physicians at the University of Minnesota participate in clinical trials. Patients treated at the university have access to more clinical trials than anywhere else in Minnesota. Discoveries made here often become the standard of care around the world. Ask your physician about a clinical trial.