Bilateral Hyphema - An Unexpected Complication of Exercise Resistance Band Use: A Case Report

Background: Resistance bands commonly used for strength training exercise come with an unexpected risk for ocular trauma. Case Report: In this report, we describe an unintended consequence of a 28-year-old man sustaining an unusual injury-bilateral hyphema-as a result of the use of elastic resistance bands. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This?: Resistance bands are commonly used for strength training exercise and, in this case, a potentially severe, vision-threatening injurytraumatic hyphema-occurred. Traumatic hyphema occurs when blood pools in the anterior chamber of the eye, usually as the result of blunt force trauma or penetrating injury. Early recognition of this condition is imperative, as complications of traumatic hyphema, such as intraocular hypertension or rebleeding, can lead to permanent vision loss. (C) 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Resistance bands commonly used in strength training exercise may lead to ocular trauma, particularly traumatic hyphema. Emergency physicians should be aware of this potential risk and be able to recognize and treat it promptly to prevent severe consequences.