[Surgical decompression of the optic nerve in intracanal injuries. Indications and results]

Fifteen patients with traumatic optic neuropathy (anatomical section excluded) underwent surgical anterior decompression of the optic nerve, via the trans ethmoid-sphenoid approach. Improvement of visual function assessed by visual acuity and visual field measurements, was obtained in 10 patients. Results remained stable for a follow-up period of at least 6 months. There was a delay of several weeks before improvement in some of the patients. Thus a long follow-up period seems recommended. Trans ethmoid-sphenoid optic nerve decompression is a reliable procedure with low morbidity, and represents a promising therapy for indirect injuries of the optic nerve.