ABSTRACT
The orbit is involved in a high proportion of blunt force facial injuries – approximately 40%. Most commonly these are in conjunction with more extensive midfacial injuries often associated with fractures of the zygomatic, maxillary or nasoethmoidal complexes. The primary aim of treatment is to restore form and function to the orbit, recreating the suspension and support of the globe, relieving entrapment, enabling free movement of the eye. At the orbital apex, the medially located optic canal passes through dense bone of the sphenoid transmitting the optic nerve together with the central artery of the retina. Visual acuity must be assessed at an early stage and enquiries made regarding the presence of diplopia and periorbital paraesthesia. Traumatic optic neuropathy is uncommon and presents secondary to either direct or indirect trauma to the optic nerve.
