Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 21, 2026

Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of Orbital Fractures
Published on: May 16, 2025
Non-traumatic subperiosteal orbital hemorrhage secondary to barotrauma
David Woo1, Simon Rogers, James Leong
1Sydney Eye Hospital , Sydney, Australia. daviewoo@gmail.com
Purpose:
To report a case of non-traumatic subperiosteal hemorrhage (NTSOH) secondary to barotrauma.
Material And Methods:
Observational case report.
Results:
A 42-year-old female presented with right proptosis with bilateral petechial lid hemorrhages, chemosis and diplopia following scuba diving. This occurred in the context of a tight facemask resulting in 'mask squeeze', and performance of Valsalva maneuver to equalize ear pressure. Clinically, there were no signs of optic nerve involvement. Computed tomography (CT) demonstrated signs consistent with right subperiosteal hematoma adjacent to the orbital roof with inferolateral displacement of the superior rectus. Patient recovered well after being admitted for intravenous dexamethasone without surgical intervention.
Conclusion:
NTSOH from barotrauma can result from 'mask squeeze' under a tight-fitting mask and exacerbated by use of Valsalva maneuvers. This may be prevented with frequent pressure equalization during diving.
Related Concept Videos
Hemorrhagic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology
Epistaxis
Etiology
Possible causes of this condition include high blood pressure, trauma, low humidity, upper respiratory tract infections, allergies, foreign bodies, nasal inhalation of corticosteroids or illicit drugs, excessive use of decongestant nasal sprays, facial or nasal surgery, anatomic malformation, tumors, or systemic...
Traumatic Brain Injury l: Introduction
