2020–2021 BCSC Basic and Clinical Science Course™
12 Retina and Vitreous
Part II: Disorders of the Retina and Vitreous
Chapter 18: Posterior Segment Manifestations of Trauma
Avulsion of the Optic Nerve Head
A forceful backward dislocation of the optic nerve from the scleral canal can occur under several circumstances, including
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extreme rotation and forward displacement of the globe
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penetrating orbital injury, causing a backward pull on the optic nerve
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sudden increase in IOP, causing rupture of the lamina cribrosa
Total loss of vision characteristically occurs. Findings may vary from a pitlike depression of the optic nerve head to posterior hemorrhage and contusion necrosis (Fig 18-7); however, hemorrhage is usually present acutely. A B-scan ultrasound may reveal a hypoechoic defect in the area of the posterior scleral defect in the region of the optic nerve (ON). Cross-sectional neuroimaging may also be helpful in making the diagnosis.
Excerpted from BCSC 2020-2021 series: Section 10 - Glaucoma. For more information and to purchase the entire series, please visit https://www.aao.org/bcsc.