[Current situation of surgery for traumatic optic neuropathy].

Although corticosteroid therapy remains the mainstream of various treatment procedures in traumatic optic neuropathy, some patients are still unable to benefit by this procedure. Therefore, optic nerve decompression has become an important choice for treating traumatic optic neuropathy. However, several problems have been raised on optic nerve decompression, such as who is suitable for this operation; as well as when to do and how to do this operation. The answers to these questions are controversial. We systematically review the current clinical evidence, and suggest that surgical decompression is indicated in cases with late onset and progressive visual loss; it is not indicated in primary complete loss of vision. Furthermore, it has been recommended that an adequate decompression requires the addition of an optic nerve sheath incision to the osseous optic canal, and it must be undertaken within seven days after the injury.