Orbital emphysema - the need for surgical intervention.
BACKGROUND
Orbital emphysema is a recognised complication of fractures of the orbit and only rarely poses a threat to vision.


METHODS
We present three patients with threatened vision secondary to orbital emphysema that required an immediate surgical decompression.


RESULTS
Visual function was preserved in all three patients.


CONCLUSIONS
Clinical awareness of pneumo-orbitism is vital as immediate orbital decompression may be necessary to preserve visual function.
Key
Steven J
SJ
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, St. Georges Hospital, Tooting, London, UK. stevenj.key@virgin.net
Ryba
Francine
F
Holmes
Simon
S
Manisali
Mehmet
M
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D019299:Decompression, Surgical; D004646:Emphysema / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D005094:Exophthalmos / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009916:Orbital Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D009917:Orbital Fractures / Q000150:complications* / Q000601:surgery; D016896:Treatment Outcome