Immediate Operation in Pediatric White-eye Blowout Fracture

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: 'White-eye blowout' fracture is often occur in young patients and defined as blow out fracture with little or no clinical sign of soft tissue trauma such as edema, ecchymosis, but with marked motility restrictions in vertical gaze. In this conditions, immediate operation is essential. We reported the clinical investigation study of these cases about clinical symptoms and radiologic findings and introduce our experiences about immediate operations in 'white-eye blowout' fractures. METHODS: From January 2008 to December 2009, nine pediatric patients who were diagnosed as pure white-eye blowout fractures were involved this study. Patients with other facial bone fractures or with poor general medical condition were excluded. In all cases, we performed immediate operation within 48 hours. RESULTS: All patients had diplopia, vertical gaze restriction or systemic symptoms. Six patients had nausea, vomiting and syncope caused by oculocardiac reflex. In all patients, preoperative symptoms were improved after immediate operation. There were no postoperative complications such as infection, hematoma or wound dehiscence. CONCLUSION: When we meet the young patients with history of periocular trauma, with little or no soft tissue trauma signs, but with marked vertical gaze restriction or general symptoms caused by oculocardiac reflex, we should immediately examine by facial bone computed tomography and refer the patient to ophthalmologist for ophthalmic evaluations. If patient is diagnosed as orbital floor fracture with entrapped muscle or soft tissue, the earlier surgical reduction get better clinical outcomes.