Traumatic iridodialysis in a student naval aviator applicant

Iridodialysis is a relatively uncommon but important sequela of blunt trauma to the eye. It classically presents as a form of polycoria or extra pupil observed during a comprehensive eye examination. This defect results from compression of the anterior-posterior aspect of the globe itself, which stretches the anterior ring segments and leads to the separation of the iris root from the ciliary body. Degraded visual acuity and visual confusion from glare as well as several late-stage pathologic sequelae may result from the injury. Establishing the diagnosis in aviators is important since any visual disturbance may incapacitate the pilot, resulting in a mishap or interference with completion of the mission. We present a case of a student naval aviator applicant who presented to the Naval Aerospace Medical Institute on two separate occasions for medical evaluation of duties involving flying after suffering blunt trauma/iridodialysis to his right eye.