Eye injuries: Understanding ocular trauma.

Abstract

Ocular trauma may result in pathology ofthe ocular surface and adnexa, extraocular muscles, orbital walls, eyeandoptic nerve. Detailed history followed by a complete ocular and, ifindicated, radiological examination istherefore a crucial part of any trauma assessment. Itis important to determine whether a patient with ocular trauma can be reassured or requires immediate referral for further investigation and surgical repair. This review examines chemical eye injuries, orbital fractures, superficial corneal foreign bodies, closed globe injury and suspected open globe injury with orwithout intra-ocular foreign bodies. Astructured approach to the history and examination is provided. The aim of this article is to enhance clinician confidence when encountering these patients. Ocular trauma can lead to serious sight‑ and eye-threatening consequences. Accurate history-taking and astute observation are paramount for timely treatment or referral that may prevent blindness. This review discusses the management and referral pathways for common presentations of ocular trauma.