Management of Eye Trauma for the Primary Care Physician

Jonathan Y Rho; Stephen C Dryden; Brian M Jerkins; Brian T Fowler

doi:10.3122/jabfm.2021.05.210121

Management of Eye Trauma for the Primary Care Physician

J Am Board Fam Med. 2021 Sep-Oct;34(5):1018-1029. doi: 10.3122/jabfm.2021.05.210121.

Authors

Jonathan Y Rho¹, Stephen C Dryden², Brian M Jerkins², Brian T Fowler²

Affiliations

¹ From the Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN (RYO, SCD, BMJ, BTF). rho.jonathan@gmail.com.
² From the Hamilton Eye Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN (RYO, SCD, BMJ, BTF).

PMID: 34535529
DOI: 10.3122/jabfm.2021.05.210121

Abstract

Eye trauma is frequently seen by non-ophthalmology providers. This article elucidates a methodological approach to eye trauma. The first step is to address any life-threatening conditions. Then a focused history and exam is discussed, starting externally. Then, key history, physical, pathophysiology, and basic management of common, serious eye injuries are discussed: chemical injury, orbital fractures, open globe, traumatic hyphema, retinal detachment, traumatic optic neuropathy, and eyelid laceration. Finally, we highlight the practicality of telemedicine for areas where ophthalmology coverage is lacking.

Keywords: Chemical Burns; Eye Injuries; Hyphema; Lacerations; Ophthalmology; Optic Nerve Injuries; Orbital Fractures; Retinal Detachment; Soft Tissue Injuries; Telemedicine; Triage.

MeSH terms

Eye Injuries* / diagnosis
Eye Injuries* / etiology
Eye Injuries* / therapy
Humans
Hyphema
Lacerations*
Orbital Fractures* / diagnosis
Orbital Fractures* / therapy
Physicians, Primary Care*