Geggel H S, Griggs P B, Freeman M I
Virginia Mason Clinic, Section of Ophthalmology, Seattle, WA 98111, USA.
CLAO J. 1996 Apr;22(2):148-50.
We describe an unusual case of corneal decompensation following air bag trauma in a 38 year-old-female.
The patient was followed clinically for 5 months post-injury with persistent corneal edema that failed to resolve, necessitating corneal transplantation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the corneal button was performed.
SEM revealed localized areas of complete endothelial destruction. Other areas of the endothelium had cell counts under 1,000 cells per square millimeter.
This case corroborates animal studies demonstrating endothelial cell loss from direct air bag trauma and stresses the need to possibly redesign this safety device for maximum driver protection.
