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Modern sports eye injuries
J A Capão Filipe1, A Rocha-Sousa, F Falcão-Reis
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Porto School of Medicine, S João Hospital, Porto, Portugal. jacapaofilipe@netcabo.pt
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|November 12, 2003
Summary
Modern sports cause severe eye injuries, with squash and paintball being common culprits. Prompt ophthalmological exams and protective gear are crucial for preventing long-term vision loss.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Sports Medicine
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Sports-related eye injuries pose a significant risk to athletes.
- Modern sports activities introduce novel mechanisms for ocular trauma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the severity and long-term consequences of eye injuries from contemporary sports.
- To identify sports with a high potential for causing ocular trauma.
Main Methods:
- Prospective observational study over 10 years (1992-2002).
- Inclusion of 25 athletes with sports-related eye injuries from various modern sports.
- Data collected from an eye emergency department.
Main Results:
- Modern sports accounted for 8.3% of all sports eye injuries.
- Squash, paintball, and motocross were leading causes.
- Retinal breaks were the most frequent diagnosis (20%), with 75% of injuries being severe.
- Two paintball players experienced final visual acuity <20/100.
Conclusions:
- Ocular injuries from modern sports are frequently severe.
- Mandatory eye protection and comprehensive post-trauma ophthalmological evaluations are recommended.
- Participant education on safe sports practices is essential.