Comprehensive Study on the Incidence and Impact of Ophthalmological Manifestations in Head Injuries

• Rupal Twinkle Shah,  
• Aarti Hitendra Dave,*  
• Abhishek Twinkle Shah,  
• Vaidehi Chandrakantbhai Shah,  
• Dhruv Rajeshkumar Gajjar

Abstract

Aim : This study investigates ophthalmological manifestations in head injuries, emphasizing the diagnostic importance of ocular findings. It aims to identify factors mitigating severe ocular injuries and underscores the critical role of immediate NCCT BRAIN+ORBIT/MRI BRAIN+ORBIT imaging post-head injury for early diagnosis and management of both brain and ocular injuries. Materials and Methodology : One hundred fifty patients with head injuries and ocular manifestations were recruited at Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, with informed consent obtained. Visual acuity was assessed, and thorough eye examinations were conducted, including radiological imaging when necessary. Follow-ups were performed post-injury. Inclusion criteria encompassed all ages and sexes with such injuries, while those unable or unwilling to participate were excluded. Results : Incidence of Ocular Manifestations in our study were Periorbital Echymosis(36.34%), Sub-conjunctival Hemorrhage(10.34%), Conjunctival Chemosis(4.67%), Laceration of Upper Eyelid(2%), Hyphema (1.34%), EOM restricted (1.34%), Laceration of Lower Eyelid(1%), Proptosis(1%), Traumatic Iridodialysis(1%), Traumatic Cataract(0.67%), Globe Rupture(0.34%), Traumatic Third Nerve Palsy(0.34%). Conclusion : From July 2020 to July 2022, 900 patients presented with head injuries at the trauma center, with 150 showing ocular manifestations. Protective gear like Helmets and Seatbelts has notably reduced Road Traffic Accident (RTA) casualties, and using radiological investigations such as CT BRAIN WITH ORBIT, X-RAY, MRI BRAIN WITH ORBIT aids in identifying ocular issues promptly, crucial for early management often missed in isolated clinical examinations.

Keywords

Head trauma, Ocular injury, Globe rupture, Traumatic cataract, Sub-conjunctival hemorrhage.