Optic nerve decompression via the lateral facial approach.

Two cases of visual loss after lateral orbital wall fracture are presented: one with retrobulbar hematoma and evidence of optic nerve compression who failed to respond to lateral canthotomy and high-dose corticosteroid administration, and the second with immediate, total blindness associated with fracture of the bony optic canal. In both, extradural decompression of the orbit and optic nerve was achieved through the lateral facial approach with partial return of visual acuity and without surgical complications. The role of orbital and optic nerve decompression in the management of patients with blindness following orbital trauma is controversial. Orbital decompression may be of value for cases of post-traumatic visual loss unresponsive to medical management. If optic nerve injury is suspected as the cause, the additional step of decompression of the optic nerve is a logical but unproven procedure. The indications for optic nerve decompression are not established and should be considered only within the context of the specific needs of the individual patient.