Management of retrobulbar hematoma

Retrobulbar hemorrhage is regarded as one of the most feared conditions in otolaryngology—its onset can be rapid and can result in irreversible blindness. While a rare occurrence, the otolaryngologist should be compulsive about recognizing this entity, as he or she may be faced with managing this condition either as a consultant, or as one of his or her personal surgical complications. Regardless, prompt recognition and swift action can prevent catastrophic visual loss. This article presents a stepwise discussion of the surgical management of retrobulbar hematoma. Specifically, we discuss lateral canthotomy, cantholysis, and endoscopic orbital decompression.