What’s the Best Way to Stop Bleeding from Lid Lacerations?

Question:  In discussions about treating eye injuries in outdoor or wilderness locations, there’s conflicting advice on whether to apply pressure to the surrounding bones of the orbit to stop bleeding. Can you clarify the correct approach in this situation?

Survival Med’s Answer:

When dealing with lid lacerations, the primary goal is to control bleeding effectively. If there is significant bleeding, it is advisable to apply direct pressure.

However, it’s crucial to note that if there is no active bleeding, caution should be exercised to avoid putting pressure on the bones or orbit surrounding the eye. Applying unnecessary pressure in the absence of bleeding can potentially cause further harm.

Therefore, the key is to assess the situation—prioritize direct pressure for bleeding control while being mindful of the surrounding anatomy.