An uncommonly serious case of an uncommon sport injury.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: A 55 year old man sustained a severe ocular injury when hit by a cricket ball even though he was wearing a helmet. METHODS: A suprachoroidal haemorrhage was drained and dense intravitreal blood was removed. An inferior buckle was applied with the use of intraocular gas. A macular haemorrhage resolved slowly. RESULTS: Despite several surgical procedures over 1.5 years, the final visual acuity of the patient was only 6/60 because of a dense macular scar. CONCLUSIONS: Helmets worn as protection when playing cricket need to be designed better and be of better material. Eye protection should be worn at all levels of play.