Effect of anterior chamber paracentesis on decreased retinal circulation due to retrobulbar hematoma in dogs

An experimental canine model for blindness following blepharoplasty was developed to demonstrate occlusion of retinal circulation resulting from simulated retrobulbar hematoma. Seven mongrel dogs were studied, monitoring retinal vascular patterns by funduscopic examination and intraocular pressure by pneumotonometry. Anterior chamber paracentesis was performed in five dogs 10 minutes after injecting blood retrobulbarly, with an immediate decrease in pressure and return of retinal blood flow. In two dogs without paracentesis, increased pressure and blindness persisted. Anterior chamber paracentesis has been shown to reduce intraocular pressure from hematoma of the retro-orbital area in dogs. Although controversial, anterior chamber paracentesis may represent a useful temporizing adjunct in the treatment of increased intraocular pressure and impaired vision from hematoma following blepharoplasty.