Abstract

Two studies, one retrospective (1972 to 1973) and one prospective (1974 to 1975), concerning eye injuries incurred by hockey players were conducted by the Canadian Ophthalmological Society with questionnaires to its Members. Responses to the questionnaires were analyzed by age, type of injury, cause (i.e.hockey stick, puck, or other means), and results to visual acuity. The resultswere also designated by organized or unorganized participation. Almost 300 eyeinjuries were reported in each study. In the first study, 13.7 of the injured players became legally blind as a result of the injury: in the second study, 16 became legally blind. Organized hockey produced more injuries thanunorganized hockey. The majority of the injuries were caused by the hockey stick. The injuries were both intraocular and extraocular. The group of 11- to15-year olds received the highest number of injuries, and the older age group had the higher incidence of blindness. Studies have led to setting more rigid standards, altering rules of the game, and selecting face protectors for hockey players. Verf.-Referat (gekuerzt)