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Optic nerve blindness following a malar fracture
M G Gonzalez1, J M Santos-Oller, J C de Vicente Rodriguez
1Dept. of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital, Oviedo, Spain.
Summary
Immediate blindness after a malar fracture is a rare but permanent complication. This case highlights poor prognosis for total vision loss, even with prompt treatment for optic nerve compression.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Trauma Surgery
- Neurology
Background:
- Malar fractures can rarely cause optic nerve damage, leading to blindness.
- Immediate and total vision loss following facial trauma indicates a poor prognosis.
Observation:
- A patient experienced immediate, complete vision loss after a malar fracture.
- Computed tomography (CT) identified bony fragments compressing the optic nerve.
Findings:
- Despite megadose steroids and surgical intervention, no vision improvement occurred.
- The study discusses the incidence, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of optic nerve injury in malar fractures.
Implications:
- Accurate timing of vision loss is crucial for assessing optic nerve injury.
- This case underscores the severity and potential permanence of vision loss in such injuries.