Optic canal decompression via the transcranial epidural approach for the treatment of traumatic optic nerve injury

Objective To report the results of optic canal decompression via the transcranial epidural approach for the treatment of traumatic optic nerve injury in 15 sides of 12 cases.Methods The operation was performed on 8 cases via the subfrontal approach,3 cases via the orbital-frontal approach and 1 case via the supraorbital keyhole approach.Optic canal decompression was performed through revealing the anterior skull base via the trans-frontal epidural approach.Results Postoperative observation found that visual acuity of 9 cases(12 sides)was improved,with no postoperative complications.Among the 4 cases without light perception before the operation,2 cases could sense the motion of hands 1 month after the operation.Conclusion Optic canal decompression via the transcranial epidural approach is effective and safe.If medication is ineffective,optic canal decompression should be performed actively,as an effective therapy for patients with ablepsia after trauma.