Intracranial transorbital injury by a wooden foreign body: re-evaluation of CT and MRI findings

Abstract

Despite modern radiological imaging, a transorbital intracranial injury with a wooden foreign body can present a vexing diagnostic problem. The orbit forms an easy path for low-velocity foreign bodies into the intracranial space. Often the severity of the injury is masked by unobtrusive superficial wounds and lack of a primary neurological deficit. Misinterpretation of CT findings may delay adequate treatment, whereas MRI is more sensitive and specific. However, MRI T1-W can demonstrate an isointense or even hyperintense signal. Findings after the use of MRI contrast medium are presented and the diagnostic features of CT and MRI are reviewed. Two cases of such injury are presented.