Surgical ophthalmologic examination.

Maxillofacial trauma involving injury to the eye and periorbital structures is not uncommon. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are frequently called on to assess and operate in and around the orbit; it is thus critical to be proficient around the eye because surgical interventions and even physical examinations can cause injury and loss of vision. This article reviews the systematic and accurate assessment of the eye and adnexal structures in a manner appropriate for the oral and maxillofacial surgeon, with a focus on proper examination technique and a high sensitivity for potentially critical abnormalities. A practical approach to performing and recording a detailed ophthalmologic examination is presented, including the assessment of vision, pupillary function, intraocular pressure, and ocular motility, as well as the slit lamp and direct fundoscopic examinations.