Surveillance of traumatic optic neuropathy in the UK.

AIMS: The aim of this study is to provide epidemiological data on the incidence, aetiology, management, and visual outcome in traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) in the UK.

METHODS: Patients with TON were identified prospectively by population-based active surveillance through the British Ophthalmic Surveillance Unit over a 2-year period with data obtained from an incident questionnaire and follow-up questionnaire sent to positive reporters.

RESULTS: Incident and follow-up data were available on 121 and 97 (80%) patients, respectively. The minimum estimated incidence was 1.005 per million. Leading causes included falls (25.6%), road traffic accidents (RTAs) (21.5%), and assaults (20.7%). The median age was 31 years. There were 95 (78.5%) men. Presenting visual acuity (VA) was 6/60 or worse in 85 (70%) patients, with 43 patients (36%) with no perception of light. Associated injuries included 47 (39%) orbital wall fractures, 37 (31%) closed globe injuries, 23 (19%) ocular adnexal injuries, 23 (19%) skull fractures, and 18 (16%) intracranial bleeding. Sixty-five percent (75/116) received no acute treatment and 35% (41/116) received steroids and/or surgery. Of the treated group, 24% (8/33) and of the untreated group 20% (11/56) improved three lines or more of VA (P=0.61). Prompt ophthalmic examination (P=0.002), orbital fracture (P=0.046), high Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score (P=0.023), and poor initial VA (P=0.009) were associated with increased likelihood of treatment. Poor initial VA (P<0.001), orbital fracture (P=0.004), and significant head injury (P=0.038) were associated with poor visual outcome.

CONCLUSIONS: This study suggested that young men were at greatest risk of TON. We detected a trend towards conservative management of this condition in the UK. TON was associated with significant ocular, orbital, and head injuries that highlighted the need for multidisciplinary management.