Globe Tethering (Globe Tenting) Sign

Definition and key criteria

Globe tenting is a posterior globe configuration change that produces a tented or conical appearance. It is commonly defined by a posterior globe angle of <130° on orbital CT.

Objective measurement: posterior globe angle

The posterior globe angle can be measured on CT to describe the degree of tenting. Progressive narrowing may accompany increasing proptosis and optic nerve stretching.

Clinical significance by angle

• 120–130°: often correlates with milder visual symptoms and better recovery.
• <120° with acute proptosis: can represent a surgical emergency where delay in decompression may jeopardize visual recovery.

Typical mechanism

Acute or subacute intraorbital mass effect increases tension, while the stretched optic nerve tethers the globe, producing the tented contour.

Note: This site is for education and does not replace clinical judgement. If acute proptosis or vision loss is suspected, seek urgent specialist care.