Oculo-orbital involvement in craniofacial injuries following road traffic accidents

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Craniofacial injury is of common occurrence following road traffic accidents (RTAs). It often leads to serious disabilities, including significant damage to the visual system. AIM: This study aims to evaluate different ocular and orbital manifestations in patients of craniofacial injury following RTA and estimate the incidence of craniofacial injuries following RTA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients with craniofacial injuries following RTA between August 2014 and August 2016 were included in the study. All patients underwent comprehensive ophthalmic evaluation. Imaging studies were done wherever indicated. RESULTS: Out of 840 cases of RTA, 77 cases presented with craniofacial injuries. Incidence of craniofacial injuries was 9.16%. Of the 77 patients, 65 (85%) were male and 12 (15%) were female. Average age was 31.15 ± 12.57 years. The most common age group affected was 21–30 years age group with 34 (44%) cases. Soft tissue injury to globe and adnexa was the most common injury seen in 69 (89.61%) cases. Injury to the orbital wall was present in 33 (42.85%) cases. The sphenoid bone in 28 (36.36%) cases was most commonly involved followed by frontal bone in 24 (31.16%) cases. Subconjunctival hemorrhage was the most common ocular finding noted on anterior segment examination in 51 (66.23%) cases. Commotio retinae was the most common retinal finding seen in 5 (6.49%) cases. CONCLUSION: Several human and environmental risk factors are associated with increased risk of RTA. If controlled properly, it can lead to reduction in mortality and morbidity associated with RTA.

Keywords

• craniofacial
• ocular
• orbital
• road traffic accidents