Grease-gun injury of the orbit: computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in diagnosis and treatment

A 19-year-old male was referred because of a grease-gun injury of the left orbit, resulting in a 25 mm proptosis and marked decrease in vision. The clinical diagnosis of penetration of the retrobulbar fat space by the grease and the subsequent accurate drainage of the grease was made possible on the basis of high resolution computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). As a result, lateral orbitotomy could be avoided. Eight months after the injury the visual acuity was fully recovered and the proptosis reduced to 2 mm. The visual field was relatively undisturbed. The specific value of CT and MRI for the management of this unusual trauma is briefly discussed.