New prospects in diagnosis and treatment planning of orbital diseases : from imaging analysis to patient-specific treatement

The orbit is a bony cavity containing the eye globe, which is embedded in a cuff of soft tissues including fat and muscles amongst others. Disorders of the orbital architecture, for example due to inflammatory diseases or facial trauma, can cause globe displacement, problems with vision and facial disfigurements leading to functional, social and aesthetic impairment.Orbital imaging studies like computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are valuable tools to support the diagnostic pathway, to objectify observations during follow-up or to assist the surgical planning. These scanning images can be processed to obtain additional information and quantify the globe position, tissue volumes, etc. This thesis aims exploring the role of intra-orbital structures through a study of the post-processing capabilities. New technological opportunities can serve as a bridging tool from the clinical assessment and scan images towards the diagnosis and treatment planning in orbital disorders. Insights in the potential and pitfalls of post-processing analysis can enhance the implementation in clinical practice and research projects. The goal is to provide objective documentation of the orbital content so to improve understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms and advance patients-specific approaches.Public defense: 2021-01-04The orbit is a bony cavity containing the eye globe, which is embedded in a cuff of soft tissues including fat and muscles amongst others. Disorders of the orbital architecture, for example due to inflammatory diseases or facial trauma, can cause globe displacement, problems with vision and facial disfigurements leading to functional, social and aesthetic impairment.Orbital imaging studies like computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are valuable tools to support the diagnostic pathway, to objectify observations during follow-up or to assist the surgical planning. These scanning images can be processed to obtain additional information and quantify the globe position, tissue volumes, etc. This thesis aims exploring the role of intra-orbital structures through a study of the post-processing capabilities. New technological opportunities can serve as a bridging tool from the clinical assessment and scan images towards the diagnosis and treatment planning in orbital disorders. Insights in the potential and pitfalls of post-processing analysis can enhance the implementation in clinical practice and research projects. The goal is to provide objective documentation of the orbital content so to improve understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms and advance patients-specific approaches.D