Peculiar Case of Orbital Emphysema Caused by High-pressure Water Jet
Y. W. Jeremy Hu
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore
Srinivasan Sanjay *
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore and Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aim: To report an unusual case of orbital emphysema secondary to high pressure water jet injury.
Presentation of Case: A 26-year-old Indian male sustained a two-centimeter facial laceration after a compressed water jet hit the left infra-orbital region. Ophthalmic examination showed extensive inferior commotio retinae without any clinical signs of conjunctival laceration or globe rupture. Computed tomography showed orbital emphysema with undisplaced fracture of the orbital floor. Follow-up examination 1 month after the injury showed total resolution of orbital emphysema.
Discussion and Conclusion: Our case illustrates the dangers of water jet injuries and the unique injury provides supporting evidence of our current existing orbital fracture theory. This injury is most peculiar and to our knowledge, not previously reported in the literature.
Keywords: Orbital emphysema, water jet injuries, orbital floor fracture, commotio retinae