Traumatic superior orbital fissure syndrome

GMS Ophthalmol Cases. 2019 Mar 29:9:Doc10. doi: 10.3205/oc000099. eCollection 2019.

Abstract

Objective: Traumatic superior orbital fissure syndrome is a rare complication that occurs in association with craniofacial trauma. In the present case, there were no associated orbital fractures or other lesions to explain. Methods: We present a-16-year-old patient with total ophthalmoplegia, ptosis, and anesthesia of the upper eyelid and forehead 6 hours after a reported trauma to the left eye. We measured the width of the superior orbital fissure on the horizontal plane including the optic canal using computed tomography scans. Results: Radiological examinations did not reveal any orbital fractures. However, the superior orbital fissure on the affected side was only 1.86 mm, increasing susceptibility to indirect trauma. Conclusions: A narrow superior orbital fissure may play a role for superior orbital fissure syndrome altering the transmitted force from the trauma and edema.

Keywords: ophthalmoplegia; superior orbital fissure syndrome; trauma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports