forced duction test
Clinical examination technique to assess mechanical restriction of extraocular muscle movement.
Full Definition
The forced duction test is a diagnostic procedure performed under local or general anesthesia to differentiate between mechanical restriction and neurologic causes of limited eye movement following orbital trauma. The examiner grasps the conjunctiva near the limbus with forceps and attempts to move the eye in the direction of limited movement while the patient attempts to look in that direction. Resistance to passive movement indicates mechanical entrapment, commonly seen with orbital floor fractures involving the inferior rectus or inferior oblique muscles. A positive test indicates the need for surgical intervention to release the entrapped tissue and restore normal ocular motility.
Usage
Usage note: Always performed under anesthesia; distinguish from forced generation test which assesses muscle strength.
In Context
- "A positive forced duction test confirmed inferior rectus entrapment requiring immediate surgical release." — ophthalmologic consultation
- "The forced duction test was negative, suggesting neurogenic rather than mechanical diplopia." — clinical examination report