[Endoscopic decompression of optic canal].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of endoscope in the treatment of optic nerve injury.

METHODS

Thirteen patients with fracture at the inner and lower walls of optical canal underwent endoscopic decompression. The posterior 1/3 of the middle concha, the posterior ethmoid sinus and sphenoid sinus were opened, chips of bone and old hematocele were scavenged, and the optic ring of the optic canal was polished; however, the sheath of the optic nerve remained intact. In 2 cases with the dura broken at the cranial part of optic nerve, the broken site was covered with mucosa of middle concha, and the sphenoid sinus and the middle nasal meatus were covered with oil ribbon gauze. Three days after the operation, the ribbon gauze was pulled put, however, if cerebro-spinal fluid leakage was suspected, the ribbon gauze was pulled out 7-10 days after. After the operation the visual acuity improvement reaching one grade or more and improvement of visual field were defined as effective.

RESULTS

Five of the 6 patients without light perception before the operation showed improvement in visual acuity. The other 7 patients with residual visual acuity all recovered to different extents.

CONCLUSION

A mini-invasive surgery, decompression of optic canal with endoscope is effective in decompressing optic nerve, decreasing the injury of optic nerve, and the patients recover quickly after operation.