A case of traumatic globe luxation.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Trauma Surgery
• Automotive Safety Engineering

Background:

• Automobile accidents are a leading cause of traumatic injuries.
• Passenger restraint systems, such as seat belts and airbags, are crucial for mitigating injury severity.
• Specific attention to rear-seat passenger safety remains an area for improvement.

Observation:

• A 26-year-old male unrestrained passenger sustained traumatic globe luxation following a motor vehicle accident.
• Clinical examination revealed an anteriorly dislocated left globe with a dilated, unresponsive pupil.
• Ocular and orbital imaging demonstrated multiple orbital wall fractures and nasal bone fractures, with no corneal or scleral lacerations.

Findings:

• Computerized tomography confirmed orbital fractures involving the nasal, inferior, and temporal walls, alongside nasal bone fractures.
• Despite initial presentation without external lacerations, the patient developed phthisis of the eye within two months.
• The optic nerve appeared normal on initial imaging.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential for severe ocular and orbital trauma even without direct corneal or scleral laceration.
• The findings suggest that unrestrained passengers, particularly in rear seats, are at significant risk of devastating eye injuries during accidents.
• Recommendations include the implementation of airbags in rear automotive seating positions to enhance passenger safety and reduce the incidence of such traumatic injuries.