A study of ocular morbidity related to trauma and role of B-Scan in its diagnosis and management

Abstract

Ocular trauma is an important cause of visual impairment worldwide. The reported annual incidence of severe ocular trauma is 9.75 per 1,000 adults. Ultrasonography (B scan) has emerged as a useful technique in ocular injury scenario. We aimed to evaluate role of B Scan ultrasonography in management of ocular injuries.All patients with ocular trauma attending the emergency department were enrolled for the study. Relevant history and demographic data was noted on the study proforma. Detailed ocular examination was done employing slit lamp biomicroscopy for anterior segment and direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy for posterior segment evaluation. All patients were necessarily subjected to B scan ultrasonography (USG) for additional clinical information. A total of 50 cases were enrolled. The mean age of affection was 28 years. The most common mode of injury was agriculture related. The most common anterior segment finding was traumatic cataract as seen in 22(44%) cases while on USG posterior vitreous detachments seen in 36% cases, followed by retinal detachment in 24% cases and vitreous haemorrhage in 22% cases. Choroidal detachment was accurately localized in 2% cases.The study emphasizes the need for B-scan as a valuable tool in the diagnosis of posterior segment pathologies particularly when the media has become opaque as it can visualize and localize the position of the lesions which would not be possible by any other means.