[Emergency treatment of post-traumatic orbital emphysema: a case report].

Abstract

PURPOSE: Orbital emphysema is a common complication of orbital wall fractures (50% of blow-out fractures). It is generally a benign and self-limited condition. However, it may compromise retinal and optic nerve vascularization and therefore requires rapid management. PATIENT AND METHOD: We report a case of traumatic orbital emphysema resulting in ischemic optic neuritis. The orbital emphysema was drained using a 25-gauge needle mounted on a syringe filled with normal saline, with the plunger removed, and guided by air bubble eruption. RESULTS: Vision was promptly recovered following drainage of the orbital emphysema. CONCLUSION: The development of orbital emphysema after an orbital fracture is a consequence of a forceful expiratory effort raising intranasal pressure. It must be drained, as described, in cases of vascular compression.