Silent sinus syndrome: a mechanical theory

Orbit. 2006 Jun;25(2):145-8. doi: 10.1080/01676830600669502.

Abstract

We present the case of a progressive enophthalmos, 23 years after an orbital floor fracture treated conservatively. Imaging demonstrated orbital fat herniation into the pterygopalatine fossa and a collapse of the maxillary sinus walls. We hypothesise that some "silent sinus syndrome" might be caused by an aspiration phenomenon resulting from masticatory muscle movements.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adipose Tissue / pathology
  • Adult
  • Enophthalmos / diagnosis
  • Enophthalmos / etiology*
  • Hernia / complications
  • Hernia / diagnostic imaging
  • Hernia / pathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Maxillary Sinus* / diagnostic imaging
  • Maxillary Sinus* / pathology
  • Orbital Fractures / complications
  • Orbital Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Orbital Fractures / pathology
  • Paranasal Sinus Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Paranasal Sinus Diseases / etiology
  • Paranasal Sinus Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Radiography
  • Syndrome