High-pressure directed water jets as a cause of severe bilateral intraocular injuries.

PURPOSE

To draw attention to the characteristic features of eye injuries caused by high-pressure water jets.

METHOD

We examined three patients with bilateral eye injuries caused by directed high-pressure water jets.

RESULTS

All three patients had reduced visual acuity bilaterally, extensive eyelid ecchymosis, subconjunctival hemorrhages, hyphema, iris sphincter rupture, transient increase in intraocular pressure, and inferior commotio retinae. These injuries were confined primarily to the lower parts of the eyes.

CONCLUSIONS

High-pressure water jets may cause bilateral eye injuries affecting primarily the anterior and inferior parts of the eyes. Because of concern about late effects of injuries, long-term follow-up is recommended.