Ocular injuries in combat sports: Analysis of mechanisms, diagnostic challenges, and preventive measures (2015–2025)

Ocular trauma is a significant concern in combat sports, where high-impact strikes frequently cause injuries ranging from mild superficial lesions to severe anterior or posterior segment damage capable of impairing vision. This narrative review examines ocular injury mechanisms in boxing, mixed martial arts, kickboxing, and other combat disciplines, describing the typical effects of blunt impacts that lead to eyelid lacerations, hyphema, orbital fractures, lens displacement, vitreous hemorrhage, retinal tears, and retinal detachment. Diagnostic evaluation is often complicated by periorbital swelling, pain, and media opacity, which may delay recognition of posterior segment pathology, while modern imaging techniques—including ocular ultrasonography, computed tomography, and optical coherence tomography—enhance early diagnosis and treatment planning. The review also summarizes evidence-based preventive measures, such as appropriate protective equipment, adherence to safety regulations, medical screening, and rapid assessment by ringside medical personnel, all of which contribute to reducing the risk of severe ocular injuries. A deeper understanding of trauma mechanisms, diagnostic limitations, and prevention strategies is essential for decreasing the incidence and severity of ocular injuries in combat sports.