Orbital Emphysema From Vigorous Sneezing
This page was last updated on: October 31, 2009
Orbital swelling and proptosis from vigorous sneezing. Air escaped into the orbit through a "reverse" medial blow-out fracture of the lamina papyracea, resulting in orbital emphysema.
The axial CT scan film (right) shows air in the orbit and a mild proptosis.
Orbital emphysema could also happen after surgery on the ethmoid sinuses. In some instances, the orbital contents might move back and forth with respiration.
Otolaryngology Houston
Bechara Y. Ghorayeb, MD
8830 Long Point, Suite 806
Houston, Texas 77055
For appointments, call: 713 464 2614
