[Computed tomography in orbital trauma]

The results of CT in 104 patients with traumatic lesions of the orbits have been analysed retrospectively. Eighty-four fractures of the orbital skeleton were diagnosed in 58 patients; in 18 cases there was peri-orbital, retrobulbar or intrabulbar bleeding and two patients had a ruptured globe. A foreign body was demonstrated in 20 cases. Additional fractures of neighbouring paranasal sinuses were present in 22 cases. Mucosal swelling or bleeding in the sinus was found in 59 cases and orbital emphysema in 22 patients. The particular value of CT in the diagnosis of orbital trauma lies in the certainty with which bony injury of the orbit and peri-orbital structures can be demonstrated.