exenteration
Pronunciation: eks-en-ter-AY-shun
Radical surgical removal of all orbital contents including the eye, extraocular muscles, fat, and sometimes eyelids, performed for extensive malignancies.
Full Definition
Orbital exenteration is an extensive surgical procedure involving removal of all contents within the bony orbit, including the eyeball, extraocular muscles, orbital fat, and potentially the eyelids and conjunctiva. This radical procedure is typically reserved for advanced malignancies with extensive orbital involvement, such as large uveal melanomas with extraocular extension, aggressive conjunctival tumors, or secondary orbital invasion from adjacent structures. Exenteration may be total (including eyelids) or subtotal (preserving eyelids), depending on tumor extent. The procedure results in significant cosmetic and functional impact, requiring extensive rehabilitation and prosthetic fitting. Modern oncological approaches aim to avoid exenteration through earlier detection and alternative treatment modalities.
Usage
Usage note: Specify 'orbital' when context might be ambiguous. Distinguish clearly from less extensive procedures like enucleation or evisceration.
In Context
- "Orbital exenteration was necessary due to extensive extraocular tumor extension." — Surgical oncology consultation
- "Post-exenteration reconstruction options were discussed with the plastic surgery team." — Multidisciplinary team meeting notes