Sudden blindness following reduction of a malar fracture.

A case of reduction of a displaced zygomatic fracture with postoperative proptosis, a dilated, nonreactive pupil, and blindness is presented. Early diagnosis with extended lateral canthotomy and removal of the lateral bony wall of the orbit for a depth of 18 mm produced immediate decompression with relief of the proptosis and possible blindness from pressure on the optic nerve. Vision was maintained, and a satisfactory cosmetic result was achieved.