Use of fracture size and soft tissue herniation on computed tomography to predict diplopia in isolated orbital floor fractures

Purpose

To determine the role of fracture size and soft tissue herniation as measured by computed tomography in predicting the development of persistent diplopia in patients with isolated orbital floor fractures.

Methods

A retrospective chart review identified patients presenting between March 2009 and 2012 with isolated orbital floor fractures. Computed tomographic scans were assessed for transverse fracture size and absence or presence of soft tissue herniation and rectus involvement. Presence of diplopia at 6–10 days, decision for surgical repair, and presence of diplopia were recorded.

Results

Fifty-six patients fulfilled inclusion criteria. Eighteen of 56 patients (32%) had preoperative diplopia. In Type A fractures, 0/9 (0%) small, 1/8 (12.5%) medium, and 2/14 (14%) large fractures had diplopia. For Type B fractures, 3/4 (75%) small, 9/13 (69%) medium, and 4/8 (50%) large fractures had diplopia. Type B fractures were significantly more likely to cause diplopia than Type A fractures in the small (p = 0.003) and medium (p = 0.007) size groups but not in the large groups (p = 0.07).

Conclusion

Transverse fracture size and presence of soft tissue herniation on CT imaging can predict development of persistent diplopia in isolated orbital floor fractures. Small and medium sized fractures with soft tissue herniation are more likely to cause diplopia than large sized fractures. We recommend early repair or closer observation of small and medium sized orbital floor fractures with soft tissue herniation due to the high risk of diplopia.