A broken eye socket involves damage to the bony cup bordering the eye. Generally, it is important to note that the eye socket holds the eyeball and muscles responsible for moving it.
What are the types?
Any or all the orbital bones might be affected by a broken eye socket. The fractures are categorized into the following:
Orbital rim fracture
This injury occurs once a hard object violently strikes the eye socket. A segment of bone might break off and driven in the direction of the blow.
The damage can occur in more than one region of the eye socket. It is likely for this injury to involve the 3 main parts of the eye socket.
Blowout fracture
This occurs after struck by something bigger than the eye socket such as a blunt object or fist. It can result to several pieces of bony fragments.
The pressure from the blunt strike to the eye leads to the buildup of pressure. This is conveyed to the eye socket, causing it to fracture exteriorly.
Trapdoor fracture
This is prevalent among children due to their supple bones than adults. Instead of fragmenting, the bone flexes outward and returns in position. This type is serious and causes lasting nerve damage.
What are the indications of an eye socket fracture?
The signs of a broken eye socket include the following:
- Swollen eyelid
- Double vision or diminished vision
- Bruising, pain, tearing or bleeding around the eye
- Nausea and vomiting
- Protruding or depressed eye or drooping eyelid
- Difficulty moving the eye in certain directions
Management
A broken eye socket will not always require surgical intervention. The doctor will determine if the fracture can recuperate on its own.
Instruct the individual to avoid blowing the nose for several weeks after the injury. The objective is to prevent the infection from spreading.
The doctor prescribes a nasal decongestant spray to prevent the need to blow the nose or sneeze. In addition, use antibiotics to prevent an infection.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on a broken eye socket is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn more about the causes and how it is treated, register for a first aid and CPR course with Saskatoon First Aid.
FACT CHECK
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orbit_(anatomy)