Silent Sinus Syndrome Post Trauma: A Case Report and Literature Review

Cureus. 2023 Sep 21;15(9):e45740. doi: 10.7759/cureus.45740. eCollection 2023 Sep.

Abstract

Silent sinus syndrome (SSS) is a relatively rare clinical condition occurring in the maxillary sinus exhibiting progressive enophthalmos and hypoglobus. The communication between the orbit and maxillary antrum due to trauma further leads to changes in the maxillary sinus. This could lead to the development of negative pressure within the maxillary sinus, collapse of antrum walls, and sucking in of orbital contents. Here, we present a case of a delayed orbital trauma, which was not treated initially. The patient's complaint was a constant feeling of a sunken right eye along with restriction in eye movements. On examination, the clinical and radiographic features were consistent with SSS. Orbital floor reconstruction was performed with the help of a titanium mesh for the correction of hypoglobus and enophthalmos. During follow-up, the patient showed no recurrence of the presenting functional and esthetic complaints. This clinical entity needs prompt diagnosis and early intervention so as to prevent further complications.

Keywords: blowout fracture; enophthalmos; orbit; orbital floor reconstruction; silent sinus syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports