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Visual Loss due to Orbital FractureThe Role of Early Reduction
Alan F. Lipkin, MD;
Gayle E. Woodson, MD;
Robert H. Miller, MD
Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 1987;113(1):81-83.
Abstract
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• Serious injury to the optic nerve is an uncommon, usually permanent, complication of orbital fractures. Occasionally it is due to reversible changes, such as edema, contusion, or compression of the optic nerve. The early management of visual loss due to orbital fracture is controversial. Some authors advocate emergency optic nerve decompression; others recommend steroid therapy alone. We present a case of nearly complete unilateral loss of vision after a lateral orbital fracture with compression of the optic nerve by bony fragments. Computed tomographic scanning of the orbit helped us to pinpoint the cause of visual compromise and also served as a guide in planning surgery. Large dosages of steroids, combined with early reduction of the fracture, resulted in substantial recovery of vision. This case illustrates the importance of precisely determining the nature of the injury and the cause of visual compromise. A protocol for management of these injuries is presented.
(Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1987;113:81-83)
Author Affiliations
From the Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Communicative Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston. Dr Lipkin is now in private practice, Denver.
Footnotes
Accepted for publication March 21, 1986.
Presented in part at the Southern Sectional Meeting of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Orlando, Fla, Jan 18, 1986.
Reprint requests to Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Communicative Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 (Dr Woodson).
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ABSTRACT
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