Silent Sinus Syndrome: A Mechanical Theory

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.

KEYWORDS:

• Orbital floor fracture
• silent sinus syndrome
• imploding antrum syndrome
• orbital fat hernia