A case of orbital emphysema as an ocular emergency.
Orbital emphysema is radiologically apparent in 50% of cases of orbital fractures, but it is generally a benign, self-limited condition. However, visual loss may occur if a fracture produces orbital compression via a ball-valve effect, allowing air to enter but not leave the orbit. A case of compressive orbital emphysema complicated by ischemic optic neuropathy is reported. Intraorbital needle aspiration relieved the compression with improvement of visual acuity and normalization of intraocular pressure.
Dobler
A A
AA
Department of Ophthalmology, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Nathenson
A L
AL
Cameron
J D
JD
Carpel
E T
ET
Janda
A M
AM
Pederson
J E
JE
D000328:Adult; D004630:Emergencies; D004646:Emphysema / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D005131:Eye Injuries / Q000150:complications; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009916:Orbital Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D009917:Orbital Fractures / Q000150:complications; D011859:Radiography; D012887:Skull Fractures / Q000150:complications