Citation

Adeyemo WL, Aribaba OT, Ladehinde AL, Ogunlewe MO. Niger. Postgrad. Med. J. 2008; 15(4): 251-254.

Affiliation

Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

19169343

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study is to critically review relevant literature regarding the mechanism of blowout fractures of the orbit and provide an answer to the question: Can one theory adequately explain the mechanism of orbital blowout fractures in the light of present day knowledge? MATERIALS AND METHODS: A computerised literature search using MEDLINE was conducted for published articles on orbital blowout fractures. Mesh phrases used in the search were: orbital blowout fractures AND mechanisms; orbital blowout fractures AND theory; orbital wall injury AND mechanisms. Only relevant articles were selected for the review. RESULTS: The physical mechanism of orbital blowout fracture has been a subject of debate for years by maxillofacial surgeons, ophthalmologists, plastic surgeons, otolaryngologists and orbitologists. However, only 3 mechanisms of injury have been proposed namely:"hydraulic"theory,"globe-to-wall"theory and"bone conduction"theory. Most of the theories of orbital blowout fractures have been confirmed through brilliant experiments and hypothetical explanation/analysis of clinical and radiologic findings, and each one appears to fit according to the different type of trauma received. CONCLUSIONS: Based on contemporary evidence, one theory may not adequately explain all types of fractures completely or be responsible exclusively in a given case for the pattern of fracture observed. Blowout fractures of the orbit could therefore be due to a combination of 2 or more mechanisms.

Language: en