Bilateral Orbital Haemorrhages Following Periocular Acupuncture – a Rising Public Health Concern in the Western Pacific Region?
Author: Amelia Davidson
Base Hospital / Institution: Department of Ophthalmology, Greenlane Clinical Centre, Auckland
ePoster presentation
Abstract ID: 25-371
Purpose
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into the body to affect functional changes in internal organ systems. Periocular acupuncture is increasingly used to treat ophthalmologic and non-ophthalmologic conditions. Although there are reported benefits, there is a lack of high-quality evidence supporting its efficacy. There are also increasing reports of complications, including orbital haemorrhage, globe perforation, retinal detachment and endophthalmitis.
Methods
We present a case of bilateral orbital haemorrhages following periocular acupuncture. Computed tomography (CT) orbits demonstrated bilateral symmetrical proptosis with retro-orbital fat stranding involving the intraconal and extraconal spaces, consistent with bilateral orbital haemorrhage. The patient was managed conservatively and made a full recovery. Members of the European Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (ESOPRS) and the British Oculoplastic Surgical Society (BOPSS) were electronically surveyed on their exposure to complications related to periocular acupuncture.
Results
There were 10 questions in the survey and the authors obtained 30 responses. No members had encountered complications from periocular acupuncture. However, the majority of respondents (97%) considered periocular acupuncture to pose a significant risk to ocular health. One member had encountered beneficial results from periocular acupuncture.
Conclusion
This is the first reported case of bilateral orbital haemorrhages following periocular acupuncture. It highlights the potential risks of this practice without robust evidence of its benefits. This survey demonstrates that the majority of oculoplastic surgeon responders are concerned about potential adverse events of periocular acupuncture. The results of this pilot survey will support guidance and recommendations for health policymakers. The authors will also survey the Asia-Pacific and American societies of ophthalmic plastic reconstructive surgeons, which may provide a further insight into this practice.
Additional Authors
| First name | Last name | Base Hospital / Institution |
|---|---|---|
| Constance | Lee | Department of Ophthalmology, Greenlane Clinical Centre, Auckland |
| Richard | Hart | Department of Ophthalmology, Greenlane Clinical Centre, Auckland |
