Contusion Rupture of the Sclera

Abstract

Ruptures of the sclera posterior to the insertion of the extraocular muscles are not infrequent, and a series of 41 such cases studied pathologically has been collected. This type of rupture has a rather typical clinical picture which is commonly overlooked, probably due in part to the frequent statements in the literature that ruptures in this location are most unusual. 1,2,15 With a sharply focused blow, ruptures of the eye usually occur at the site of impact, the direct rupture. If the force is more diffuse, the rupture will be indirect and will occur in the weakest area of the scleral tunic, as the force is distributed according to hydraulic law (Fig. 1). Most authorities give the usual site of the indirect rupture as the area of sclera near the limbus which is weakened by the canal of Schlemm and the perforating vessels. The cases with ruptures elsewhere have often