Zygomatic bone fractures complicated by retrobulbar haemorrhage

The two patients described in this report demonstrate retrobulbar haemorrhage as a complication of zygomatic bone fracture. Successful treatment of this rare but very serious complication involves urgent consultation with an ophthalmology service, and immediate medical and surgical management. It is extremely important to check the vision of patients with zygomatic bone fracture, before and after surgery, and consideration should be given to obtaining an ophthalmology opinion for all fractures involving the orbit. A simple examination, which every dentist should be able to perform, should include inspection of the eye, a test of visual acuity, testing eye movements, testing visual fields, reaction of the pupils, and an examination for proptosis.