Lateral canthotomy

Canthotomy (also called lateral canthotomy and canthotomy with cantholysis) is a surgical procedure where the lateral canthus, or corner, of the eye is cut to relieve the fluid pressure inside or behind the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOC). The procedure is typically done in emergency situations when the intraocular pressure becomes too high, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to blindness if left untreated.

The most common cause of elevated intraocular pressure is orbital compartment syndrome (OCS) caused by trauma, retrobulbar hemorrhage, infections, tumors, or prolonged hypoxemia. Absolute contraindications to canthotomy include globe rupture. Complications include bleeding, infections, cosmetic deformities, and functional impairment of eyelids. Lateral canthotomy further specifies that the lateral canthus is being cut. Canthotomy with cantholysis includes cutting the lateral palpebral ligament, also known as the canthal tendon.