Clinico-radiological features and treatment outcomes in children with traumatic orbital subperiosteal hematoma.

PURPOSE: To study the clinical findings, imaging features, and treatment outcomes in children diagnosed with traumatic orbital subperiosteal hematoma (OSpH).

METHODS: The medical records of eligible OSpH children treated either via needle aspiration or open surgical drainage were reviewed retrospectively. Three anatomical factors (inferior globe displacement, superior orbital sulcus fullness, extraocular movements) and two functional parameters (visual acuity, pupillary reactions) were used to determine overall success.

RESULTS: A total of 10 children (mean age, 6.8 years; 8 males) were included. All had a history of blunt trauma, unilateral presentation, inferior globe displacement, fullness of superior orbital sulcus, and raised retrobulbar resistance. Diminution of vision and restricted elevation was noted in 7 children, and 4 had a relative afferent pupillary defect. Computed tomography (CT) revealed superior OSpH in all 10 children and, additionally, orbital wall fracture in 4. Needle aspiration of the OSpH was performed in 8 children; 2 underwent open surgical drainage. At a mean follow-up of 8.5 months, all children showed satisfactory improvement in both anatomical and functional parameters:1 child had a persistent nebulomacular corneal opacity, and 1 had minimal upper eyelid edema.

CONCLUSIONS: A high index of suspicion, appropriate radiology (CT of orbits), and early management through needle aspiration of OSpH may help in early and satisfactory anatomical and functional outcomes.