Lateral canthotomy and cantholysis: emergency management of orbital compartment syndrome

Abstract

Background: Orbital compartment syndrome is a sight-threatening emergency. Vision may be preserved when timely intervention is performed.

Objective: To present a case of orbital compartment syndrome caused by traumatic retrobulbar hemorrhage and the procedure of lateral canthotomy and cantholysis, reviewed with photographic illustration.

Discussion: Lateral canthotomy and cantholysis are readily performed at the bedside with simple instruments. The procedure may prevent irreversible blindness in cases of acute orbital compartment syndrome.

Conclusions: Emergency physicians should be familiar with lateral canthotomy and cantholysis in the management of orbital compartment syndrome to minimize the chance of irreversible visual loss.

Keywords: cantholysis; canthotomy; lateral canthotomy; ocular trauma; orbital compartment syndrome; retrobulbar hemorrhage.