What is the Ida Mann classification used for in ocular trauma?

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Last updated: November 7, 2025View editorial policy

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Ida Mann Classification

The Ida Mann classification is not a recognized or established classification system in ocular trauma. After reviewing current ophthalmology guidelines and trauma classification systems, there is no evidence that an "Ida Mann classification" exists or is used in clinical practice for ocular trauma assessment.

Established Ocular Trauma Classification Systems

The following are the actual classification systems used in ophthalmology for ocular trauma:

Birmingham Eye Trauma Terminology (BETT) and Ocular Trauma Classification System

  • The Ocular Trauma Classification Group developed the standard system for classifying mechanical eye injuries, which categorizes injuries based on four variables: type (mechanism), grade (visual acuity), pupil status (presence of relative afferent pupillary defect), and zone (anteroposterior extent) 1
  • This system classifies both open-globe and closed-globe injuries and is designed for use during initial examination without requiring extraordinary testing 1
  • The classification has demonstrated prognostic significance and promotes standardized terminology across clinical management and research 1

Expanded Classification Systems

  • A newer, broader classification system has been proposed to include adnexal trauma, nonmechanical injuries, and destructive globe injuries, which the conventional system fails to classify 2
  • This expanded system successfully classified all 535 trauma cases in validation studies, whereas conventional classification could only categorize 364 cases (missing approximately 33% of injuries) 2, 3
  • The expanded classification allows for better prognostication and more comprehensive documentation of the full spectrum of ocular injuries 2

Clinical Assessment Framework for Ocular Trauma

Initial Evaluation Components

  • Visual acuity testing is the most important prognostic factor, with Grade IV visual acuity (<5/200) at presentation being the strongest predictor of poor visual outcome 4
  • Pupillary examination, intraocular pressure measurement, and exophthalmometry should be performed 5
  • Forced duction testing helps distinguish restriction from paresis of extraocular muscles 5

Imaging Recommendations

  • Non-contrast thin-section orbital CT with multiplanar reconstructions is the imaging modality of choice for orbital trauma 5, 6, 7
  • CT is superior for identifying orbital fractures, displaced fragments, and metallic foreign bodies with 94.9% sensitivity 7
  • MRI is absolutely contraindicated if metallic foreign bodies are suspected due to potential movement of the object 5, 7

Common Pitfall to Avoid

Do not search for or attempt to use an "Ida Mann classification" in clinical practice, as this is not a validated or recognized system in ophthalmology. Instead, use the established Ocular Trauma Classification System or the expanded classification system for comprehensive trauma documentation 2, 1.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Guideline

Treatment of Orbital Hemorrhage

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025

Guideline

CT Orbit Imaging for Metal Foreign Bodies in the Eye

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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