Bilateral Severe Ocular Trauma Resulting From Drone Accident: A Case Report

In the past decade, drone use has surged across recreational, commercial, and military sectors, leading to an increase in drone-related injuries, ranging from minor abrasions to severe trauma, such as head injuries and ocular damage. We present the first case of bilateral penetrating ocular injury caused by drone propeller blades, which resulted in significant visual impairment.

A 45-year-old man presented with bilateral corneoscleral laceration with uveal and vitreous tissue prolapse following an injury with the propeller blades of an agricultural drone. Visual acuity at presentation was light perception in both eyes with inaccurate light projection in the right eye and accurate light projection in the left eye. Bilateral corneoscleral laceration repair was performed under general anesthesia.

The visual prognosis in the right eye was poor because of the involvement of a large scleral tear, which extended posteriorly beyond the equator. The vision in the left eye subsequently improved to 6/24, three months postoperatively.

This case underscores the potential dangers of drones, even in controlled environments, and emphasizes the need for stricter regulations to ensure their safe use and prevent severe injuries, particularly to sensitive areas like the eyes. This case also highlights the importance of proper initial visual assessment, as it can act as a surrogate marker for postoperative visual prognosis.