Malar fractures associated with exophthalmos.

Although fracture of the malar bone is often associated with enlargement of the orbit and subsequent development of enophthalmos, occasionally, a blowin type of orbital floor fracture and exophthalmos occurs. The causes of the injury and the differential diagnosis of the blowin fracture are reviewed. An explanation is offered for the development of the symptoms. Early recognition, open reduction and fixation of the malar bone, and repair of the floor of the orbit defect are important for successful management of the injury.