Posttraumatic glaucoma

Following ocular trauma, it is not uncommon for many patients to develop some form of secondary glaucoma. Studies have indicated a 2-10% incidence of late onset glaucoma following blunt trauma. The trauma can be either penetrating or nonpenetrating in nature. Penetrating injuries can lead to severe intraocular damage and inflammation which may cause anterior synechiae, a pupillary block or a trabeculitis. These processes can ultimately produce a glaucomatous condition. Severe blunt ocular trauma (an ocular contusion) can also lead to a glaucomatous state by producing an angle recession, hyphema, inflammation, and lens dislocation and ruptures. All of these different types of injuries and subsequent glaucomas will be discussed along with their treatment plans.