Lateral canthotomy and cantholysis should be performed for ocular compartment syndrome (most commonly caused by retrobulbar hemorrhage) with acute loss of visual acuity, relative afferent pupillary defect, increased IOP, and proptosis.

Why would you need a lateral Canthotomy?

Indications. Lateral canthotomy should be performed as acute management for orbital compartment syndrome, which presents with increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and impaired extraocular motility. Typically, this syndrome occurs within the context of recent orbital trauma or eye surgery.

Who can perform a lateral Canthotomy?

Lateral Canthotomy and Cantholysis. The ability to perform a lateral canthotomy and cantholysis is an essential skill for every ophthalmologist and emergency room physician. It can be a vision-saving technique in the setting of decreased perfusion to the optic nerve or globe as a result of increased orbital pressure.