Unexpected Cornea Complication Following Airbag Injury
Published 2025 - 43rd Congress of the ESCRS
Reference: PO996 | Type: Poster | DOI: 10.82333/e0jr-5860
Authors: Naeem Iqbal* 1 , Tom Jenyon 2
1Ophthalmology,Birmingham Midland Eye Centre,Birmingham,United Kingdom, 2Ophthalmology,Royal Shrewsbury Hospital,Shrewsbury,United Kingdom
Purpose
Airbag systems are integral to passenger safety during road traffic accidents (RTAs), yet their deployment can also result in significant ocular trauma. The cornea, a vital structure responsible for focusing light onto the retina, relies on its endo- thelial layer to maintain transparency through fluid regulation. Damage to these endothelial cells can lead to corneal oedema and visual impairment. This report describes a unique case of bilateral endo- thelial decompensation following airbag-induced blunt trauma, highlighting the need for vigilance in recognising potential ocular complications in such scenarios.
Setting
We present a case of a man in his late 80s who presented with bilateral corneal decompensation following airbag deployment during a road traffic accident.
Methods
Review of clinical data from visits to outpatient clinic.
Results
Ocular examination revealed multilevel ocular injury with severe bilateral corneal oedema. This was managed with topical steroids, mydriatics and antibiotic therapy. At 1-month follow-up, the left eye had persistent corneal oedema. Specular microscopy was performed which confirmed endothelial cell loss making the patient a candidate for a corneal endothelial graft. We observed blunt trauma from airbag deployment causing endothelial cell loss and subsequent corneal decompensation.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that patients presenting to the emergency department with facial trauma from airbag injury should be referred for comprehensive ophthalmological assessment and that the reviewing ophthalmologist should have endothelial cell loss in mind during examination.