Sports-related traumatic hyphema

Traumatic hyphema is a common sports-related eye injury that can cause permanent visual loss. Although referral to an ophthalmologist is advised, the primary care physician is often responsible for making the diagnosis and initiating medical care. A careful history should be taken and a physical examination performed, with attention given to possible accompanying ocular injuries. Proper positioning of the patient and placement of a unilateral eye shield are the first steps in management. Therapy is aimed at preventing secondary hemorrhage, elevated intraocular pressure and corneal blood staining. Surgical intervention may be necessary to preserve vision. Prognosis depends on the size of the hyphema, the development of complications and the presence of associated injuries. Protective eye guards have been shown to be very effective in preventing traumatic hyphema.