Orbital Emphysema with Vision Impairment after Minor Trauma-Two Case Reports

Abstract

Orbital emphysema is a common presentation of orbital fractures, and it is generally a benign, self-limited condition. The presence of intraorbital air indicates paranasal-orbital communication that results mainly from medial wall fracture. However, visual complication may occur if a check-valve effect develops. Because of the potential risk for severe visual loss, orbital emphysema with associated vision dysfunction should prompt a CT scan and require decompression. Orbital emphysema may occur as a result of minor trauma that is insufficient to cause obvious bony injury, and the risk of visual complication may be neglected. We report two cases of orbital emphysema after an episode of minor trauma. These patients experienced visual compromise and they settled with surgical decompression by lateral canthotomy and cantholysis. The visual acuity recovered completely. Postoperative follow-up showed no recurrence or complication.