The eyes and surrounding structures are highly delicate and prone to injury. Periocular trauma refers to damage to the tissues around the eyes, including the eyelids, orbit (eye socket), and lacrimal (tear drainage) system. These injuries can range from minor bruises to severe fractures and lacerations that may impact vision and facial aesthetics.

Dr. Saurbhi Khurana, an expert Oculoplasty Surgeon, specializes in treating periocular trauma with precision and care.

Common Causes of Periocular Trauma

Periocular injuries can occur due to a variety of reasons, including:

1. Blunt Trauma

• Sports injuries (e.g., being hit by a ball or an elbow)
• Falls, particularly in children and elderly individuals
• Car accidents
• Physical altercations or assaults

2. Penetrating Trauma

• Sharp objects such as knives, broken glass, or metallic fragments
• Workplace accidents involving machinery
• Animal bites or scratches

3. Chemical and Thermal Burns

• Accidental exposure to household cleaning agents, acids, or alkalis
• Contact with hot surfaces or open flames
• Electrical burns from exposed wires or appliances

4. Orbital Fractures

• High-impact injuries, such as those from vehicle accidents or direct facial blows
• Common in sports-related incidents and falls

5. Post-Surgical Complications

• Infections or tissue damage following eye or facial surgery
• Adverse reactions to medical procedures affecting the eyelids or surrounding areas

Symptoms of Periocular Trauma

The severity of symptoms varies depending on the type of injury, but common signs of periocular trauma include:

• Swelling and bruising around the eyes and eyelids
• Pain and tenderness in the affected area
• Cuts or lacerations on the eyelids
• Bleeding from the wound or nearby tissues
• Double vision or blurred vision
• Difficulty opening or closing the eye
• Visible deformity of the eye socket
• Excessive tearing due to damage to the lacrimal system
• Foreign body sensation in the eye or surrounding area

Prompt treatment is essential to avoid complications such as permanent vision impairment, facial disfigurement, or chronic eye conditions.

Types of Periocular Trauma

1. Eyelid Lacerations

• Minor cuts can heal naturally, but deeper wounds may require surgical intervention.
• If the injury affects the eyelid margin or tear ducts, precise repair is essential to restore function.

2. Orbital Fractures

• A fracture of the eye socket (blowout fracture) can cause sunken eyes, restricted movement, and double vision.
• Severe cases may need surgical correction to restore normal anatomy.

3. Lacrimal System Injuries

• Damage to the tear ducts can result in excessive tearing or chronic eye infections.
• Microsurgical techniques are often required to repair the drainage system.

4. Soft Tissue and Muscle Damage

• Contusions (bruises) and hematomas (blood accumulation) can cause swelling and skin discoloration.
• Damage to the muscles controlling eye movement may result in double vision or eye misalignment.

5. Nerve Damage

• Trauma can affect nerves controlling eyelid function, leading to drooping (ptosis).
• Some nerve injuries may require surgical repair or physical therapy.

Diagnosis of Periocular Trauma

Dr. Saurbhi Khurana conducts a comprehensive assessment to determine the severity of the injury. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Slit-lamp examination – Evaluates the eye's surface and surrounding structures.
• CT scan or MRI – Helps detect fractures, deep tissue injuries, or foreign bodies.
• Tear duct evaluation – Determines if tear drainage is affected.
• Ophthalmic examination – Checks for internal eye damage, such as retinal detachment or optic nerve injury.

Treatment Options

The choice of treatment depends on the type and extent of the injury.

1. First Aid and Immediate Care

• Cold compresses can reduce swelling and bruising.
• Wound cleaning with saline helps prevent infection.
• Avoid rubbing the eyes to prevent further damage.
• Emergency medical attention is necessary for deep lacerations, persistent bleeding, or vision changes.

2. Non-Surgical Treatments

• Antibiotics to prevent infections in open wounds.
• Pain relievers to manage discomfort and inflammation.
• Lubricating eye drops for irritation and dryness.

3. Surgical Treatments

• Eyelid laceration repair – Uses precise suturing techniques to prevent deformities.
• Orbital fracture repair – May require reconstructive surgery for realignment.
• Lacrimal system reconstruction – Restores normal tear drainage.
• Ptosis correction – Treats drooping eyelids caused by nerve or muscle damage.

Consult Dr. Saurbhi Khurana for Expert Care

Periocular trauma requires specialized care to ensure both functional and cosmetic restoration. Dr. Saurbhi Khurana, a highly skilled Oculoplasty Surgeon, offers expert evaluation and advanced treatment options tailored to your needs.

Book Your Consultation Today

Ensure the best possible recovery and protect your vision by consulting with an expert. Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference. Schedule an appointment today.