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Traumatic optic neuropathy: result in 45 consecutive surgically treated patients
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
Summary
Extracranial optic nerve decompression surgery improved vision in 71% of patients with traumatic optic neuropathy unresponsive to corticosteroids. This surgical approach offers a safe and effective treatment option for vision recovery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurosurgery
- Trauma Care
Background:
- Traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) management is debated.
- Corticosteroids are a common initial treatment but often insufficient.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of extracranial optic nerve decompression in patients with TON.
- To present a treatment protocol combining corticosteroids and surgery.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 45 patients with TON.
- Patients received corticosteroids for 12-24 hours without improvement prior to surgery.
- Extracranial optic nerve decompression was performed.
Main Results:
- Vision improved in 32 patients (71%) post-surgery.
- Mean visual deficit improvement was 40.7%.
- No vision worsening or surgical complications were reported.
Conclusions:
- Extracranial optic nerve decompression is a safe and effective treatment for TON.
- This surgical intervention can significantly restore vision when corticosteroids fail.
- A combined protocol of corticosteroids and surgery is proposed for TON management.