Facial and Ocular trauma

Question 1

Indications for lateral canthotomy

Answer 1

Acute orbital compartment syndrome
Unconscious
- Afferent pupillary defect (best)
- IOP >40mmHg
Conscious
- Decreased visual acuity (<6/18) + proptosis or afferent pupillary defect or IOP > 40

Question 2

Contraindication to lateral canthotomy

Answer 2

Suspected globe rupture
- IOP often <5mmHg

Question 3

What basic procedures can be done to alleviated maxillofacial bleeding in trauma?

Answer 3