Trauma to the Globe and Orbit

Trauma to the eye represents approximately 3% of all emergency department visits in the United States. Rapid assessment and examination following trauma to the eye is crucial. A thorough knowledge of potential injuries is imperative to ensure rapid diagnosis, to prevent further damage to the eye, and to preserve visual capacity. This article describes the aspects of the eye examination that merit special attention in the case of trauma. It then discusses the eye injuries most likely to be seen in the emergency department and their appropriate treatment.