Management of traumatic hyphema in Texas

To determine the usual approach to management of traumatic hyphema in Texas, we mailed a survey to ophthalmologists in the state who indicated a practice focus of either general ophthalmology or pediatric ophthalmology. The survey included inquiries regarding type of practice, patient population, frequency of traumatic hyphema, laboratory investigations, treatment precautions, medical and surgical treatment, criteria for hospitalization, and criteria for surgical intervention. Of the 495 surveys mailed out, 169 (response rate = 34.1%) were returned and filled out completely. More than half of the respondents do not routinely consider sickle cell testing in traumatic hyphema cases. We found no consensus regarding use of systemic antifibrinolytic agents, indications for hospitalization, or timing of surgical intervention. The results of this survey emphasize the lack of consensus surrounding treatment of traumatic hyphema. The relative paucity of sickle cell testing among Texas ophthalmologists, however, appears inconsistent with recommendations in the medical literature.