A Comparative Study of 2 Implants Used to Repair Inferior Orbital Wall Bony Defects: Autogenous Bone Graft Versus Bioresorbable Poly-L/DL-Lactide [P(L/DL)LA 70/30] Plate

Changes in Volume and Bone Density of Calvarial Grafts After Two Years of Orbital Reconstruction

One of the greatest challenges in orbital reconstruction is to obtain adequate orbital volume and globe projection after traumatic injury. Autologous bone graft has been considered the gold standard for orbital floor reconstruction, but the harvesting yields many possible complications, such as donor site morbidity. Bone resorption is a frequent problem that can lead to insufficient volume after graft placement. There is a theoretically lower resorption rate of skull bone grafts, even though the exact amount is not known yet. This study is the first to evaluate bone volume and density changes of calvarial split bone grafts after orbital floor reconstruction with a 2-year follow-up. Bone volume and density of calvarial split grafts were determined using computed tomography scans and the software program RadiAnt Dicom Viewer in a total of 10 patients with orbital floor fracture reconstruction. Computed tomography scans taken immediately after surgery (T0) and after a postoperative period of 2 years (T1) were evaluated. The authors found a mean bone volume reduction of 34.25% after 2 years. Bone density was still high after 2 years (over 850 HU), with a mean reduction of 8%. Based on these findings, calvarial split bone grafts represent the ideal reconstruction material for orbital floor fractures.

The Use of Functional Biomaterials in Aesthetic and Functional Restoration in Orbital Surgery

The integration of functional biomaterials in oculoplastic and orbital surgery is a pivotal area where material science and clinical practice converge. This review, encompassing primary research from 2015 to 2023, delves into the use of biomaterials in two key areas: the reconstruction of orbital floor fractures and the development of implants and prostheses for anophthalmic sockets post-eye removal. The discussion begins with an analysis of orbital floor injuries, including their pathophysiology and treatment modalities. It is noted that titanium mesh remains the gold standard for orbital floor repair due to its effectiveness. The review then examines the array of materials used for orbital implants and prostheses, highlighting the dependence on surgeon preference and experience, as there are currently no definitive guidelines. While recent innovations in biomaterials show promise, the review underscores the need for more clinical data before these new materials can be widely adopted in clinical settings. The review advocates for an interdisciplinary approach in orbital surgery, emphasizing patient-centered care and the potential of biomaterials to significantly enhance patient outcomes.

Management of orbital floor fractures in France: Results of a national online survey

INTRODUCTION

Orbital floor fractures (OFF) are common facial trauma injuries, and there are no official guidelines for their medical and surgical management. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of the management of OFF in France.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An online questionnaire was sent to 144 surgeons at the 88 French centers involved in the management of OFF (2019 data from the National Health Insurance Body). The questions related to the preoperative clinical and radiographic examinations, the criteria for surgical indication, the materials used, and the elements of the postoperative period.

RESULTS

Ultimately, 42 questionnaires were analyzed (32 from oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMFS), 8 from ophthalmologists, and 2 from ENT or plastic surgeons). For 69% of the surgeons, a systematic ophthalmological examination was carried out, 3-7 days after the trauma, and based on a Lancaster test or visual acuity (97.6% and 83.3% of the responders, respectively). The most important criteria for the therapeutic decision were diplopia or oculomotor disorder that persisted for more than 7 days (76.2%), clinical enophthalmos (54.8%), a large fracture (52.4%), and ptosis of the orbital content on CT scan (38.1%). The mean surgical delay was 7-15 days for 54.8% of the responders. Resorbing sheets were the preferred materials to repair small fractures, while larger fractures required alloplastic implants (titanium mesh).

CONCLUSION

This survey confirms the diversity of practices in France regarding the management of OFF. Further studies are needed before guidelines can be developed.

Controversies and Contemporary Management of Orbital Floor Fractures

Substantial controversy exists regarding the timing of intervention and management of patients with orbital floor fractures. Recent advances in computer-aided technology, including the use of 3-dimensional printing, intraoperative navigational imaging, and the use of novel implants, have allowed for improvement in prospective management modalities. As such, this article aims to review the indications and timing of repair, surgical approaches, materials used for repair, and contemporary adjuncts to repair. Indications for orbital floor fracture repair remain controversial as many of these fractures heal without intervention or adverse sequelae. Intraoperative navigation and imaging, as well as endoscopic guidance, can improve visualization of defects mitigating implant positioning errors, thereby reducing the need for secondary corrective procedures. Patient-specific implants may be constructed to fit the individual patient's anatomy using the preoperative CT dataset and mirroring the contralateral unaffected side and have been shown to improve pre-operative efficiency and minimize postoperative complications. With increased data, we can hope to form evidence-based indications for using particular biomaterials and the criteria for orbital defect characteristics, which may be best addressed by a specific surgical approach.

The Dilemma of Reconstructive Material Choice for Orbital Floor Fracture: A Narrative Review

The aim of this study is to present a narrative review of the properties of materials currently used for orbital floor reconstruction. Orbital floor fractures, due to their complex anatomy, physiology, and aesthetic concerns, pose complexities regarding management. Since the 1950s, a myriad of materials has been used to reconstruct orbital floor fractures. This narrative review synthesises the findings of literature retrieved from search of PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. This narrative review was conducted of 66 studies on reconstructive materials. Ideal material properties are that they are resorbable, osteoconductive, resistant to infection, minimally reactive, do not induce capsule formation, allow for bony ingrowth, are cheap, and readily available. Autologous implants provide reliable, lifelong, and biocompatible material choices. Allogenic materials pose a threat of catastrophic disease transmission. Newer alloplastic materials have gained popularity. Consideration must be made when deliberating the use of permanent alloplastic materials that are a foreign body with potential body interactions, or the use of resorbable alloplastic materials failing to provide adequate support for orbital contents. It is vital that surgeons have an appropriate knowledge of materials so that they are used appropriately and reduce the risks of complications.

A comparative study of porous polyethylene versus absorbable polydextro- and polylevolactic-lactide plate in reconstruction of isolated medial orbital wall fracture

BACKGROUND

Several materials for medial orbital wall reconstruction have been mentioned in the literature. Our main purpose was to investigate postoperative enophthalmos and diplopia after medial orbital wall reconstruction with polydextro- and polylevolactic (poly-_L/_DL) acid (P[_L/_DL]LA) mesh plates and porous polyethylene plates.

METHODS

Using a retrospective study design, we enrolled a cohort of isolated medial blowout fracture patients treated during a 58-month interval. The predictor variable was medial orbital wall reconstruction materials (P(_L/_DL)LA mesh plate and porous polyethylene plate. The main outcome variables included the occurrence of postoperative enophthalmos and diplopia at 1 week, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-surgery. Appropriate descriptive, uni- and bivariate statistics were computed, and P < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

Three hundred-two isolated medial blowout fracture patients were included (24.5% females, 67% treated with P(_L/_DL)LA mesh plate). Exophthalmos measured highest in both groups 1 week after surgery and decreased steadily for 6 months postoperatively. Statistically significant differences were observed between both groups at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery, with a higher incidence of exophthalmos observed in the P(_L/_DL)LA mesh plate group (P < 0.001). No significant differences were observed at 6 and 12 months after surgery.

CONCLUSION

The occurrence of enophthalmos after medial blowout fracture reconstruction with P(_L/_DL)LA mesh plate is comparable with the use of porous polyethylene plate. Both P(_L/_DL)LA mesh and porous polyethylene plates are, therefore, reliable implants for medial orbital wall reconstruction.

Utilizing 3D-Printed Orbital Floor Stamps to Create Patient-Specific Implants for Orbital Floor Reconstruction

PURPOSE

This study seeks to test a novel technique of custom-printed midface contour models with orbital floor "stamps" to guide reconstruction of orbital floor blowout fractures, with or without concomitant zygomaticomaxillary complex injury.

METHODS

A series of 4 consecutive patients with orbital floor blowout fractures (including 3 with zygomatic maxillary complex fractures) were retrospectively examined for outcomes associated with orbital floor reconstruction using 3-dimensional-printed stamps and midface models. Data collected included demographics, pre- and postoperative visual globe malposition, motility, and visual field disturbances. Three-dimensional printing methodology is reported, as well as associated costs and time required to generate the models and stamps.

RESULTS

The cost of producing a midface-contour model and orbital floor stamps was $131, inclusive of labor and materials. Cases averaged 170 minutes to segment, design, and print. Patients with preoperative diplopia and motility restrictions had resolution of their symptoms. Two patients had resolution of their enophthalmos, while one patient with a concomitant zygomaticomaxillary fracture had persistent mild enophthalmos.

CONCLUSIONS

Midface contour models and orbital floor stamps may be produced in a timely and cost-effective manner. Use of these "homemade" stamps allows for patient-specific custom-contoured orbital floor reconstruction. Further studies are warranted to examine long-term visual and esthetic outcomes for these patients.

Clinical evaluation of the efficacy of materials used for primary reconstruction of orbital floor defects: Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this network meta-analysis (NMA) was to compare the clinical results obtained after primary reconstruction of orbital floor fractures (OFF) using different materials.

METHODS

PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases were screened from 1989 to 2019. For a study to be eligible, it had to evaluate two or more materials and report the following clinical parameters: diplopia and/or enophthalmos and/or other complications.

RESULTS

Nine studies involving 946 patients presenting with an OFF were included. After the surgical procedure, 105 patients (11%) had diplopia, while 43 patients (4.5%) suffered from enophthalmos. The NMA revealed that less postoperative diplopia and enophthalmos were obtained either by using polydioxanone (PDS), or a polymer of l-lactic acid and dl-lactic acid (P[L/DL]LA), or porous polyethylene, or titanium mesh compared with the use of autologous bone grafts.

CONCLUSION

P(L/DL)LA and PDS seem to be the best options for small and intermediate defects, whereas the association of porous polyethylene and titanium should be preferred for larger defects.

Prognosis of Patient With Resorbable Plates and Screws Under the Incision Site

Various resorbable plates and screws were used for facial bone fractures because of several strengths. However, there are few studies on their clinical course and long-term follow-up concerning their degradation and resorption time. The authors present rare case of long term follow-up of resorbable plates and screws under the incision site.

Resorbable Implants for Orbital Fractures: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Orbital fractures are one of the most common sequelae of facial trauma.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to summarize published data for resorbable implants in orbital reconstruction, including polymer composition, degradation characteristics, osteoconductivity, and complications such as enophthalmos, diplopia, and peri-implant inflammation. A literature search of the National Library of Medicine was performed via PubMed using the keyword resorbable orbital implant. A total of 27 studies were reviewed. Strength of data was assessed according to the Oxford Centre criteria.

RESULTS

Most commercially available implants provide adequate tensile strength for up to 6 months (with the exception of polydioxanone, which loses strength within 1 month, and poly(D,L-lactide) within 3 months). This is sufficient for the isolated orbital floor or medial wall (tensile strength, ~300 MPa) but insufficient for reconstruction of load-bearing areas (eg, the inferior orbital rim with tensile strength of ~1.2 GPa). Thicker products (>1 mm) have increased risk for delayed inflammation than thinner products. Postoperative complications including delayed inflammation (0%-9%), eyelid malposition (0%-5%), enophthalmos (5%-16%), diplopia (0%-16%), infection (0%-2%), and infraorbital nerve hypesthesia (2%-18%) are variably distributed across implants with several notable exceptions: poly(L-lactide) has an increased risk of delayed inflammation, and polydioxanone has a risk of delayed enophthalmos and hematoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Resorbable implants are suitable for isolated medial wall or floor fractures with intact bony buttresses and function as a barrier rather than a load-bearing support.

Clinical courses and degradation patterns of absorbable plates in facial bone fracture patients

Background

Absorbable plates are widely used in open reduction and internal fixation surgeries for facial bone fractures. Absorbable plates are made of polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), polydioxane (PDS), or various combinations of these polymers. The degradation patterns of absorbable plates made from different polymers and clinical courses of patients treated with such plates have not been fully identified. This study aimed to confirm the clinical courses of facial bone fracture patients using absorbable plates and compare the degradation patterns of the plates.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted for 47 cases in 46 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation surgery using absorbable plates to repair facial bone fractures. All surgeries used either PLA/PGA composite-based or poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA)/hydroxyapatite (HA) composite-based absorbable plates and screws. Clinical courses were confirmed and comparisons were conducted based on direct observation.

Results

There were no naturally occurring foreign body reactions. Post-traumatic inflammatory responses occurred in eight patients (nine cases), in which six recovered naturally with conservative treatment. The absorbable plates were removed from two patients. PLA/PGA composite-based absorbable plates degraded into fragments with non-uniform, sharp surfaces whereas PLLA/HA composite-based absorbable plates degraded into a soft powder.

Conclusion

PLA/PGA composite-based and PLLA/HA composite-based absorbable plates showed no naturally occurring foreign body reactions and showed different degradation patterns. The absorbable plate used for facial bone fracture surgery needs to be selected in consideration of its degradation patterns.

Permanent Versus Bioresorbable Implants in Orbital Floor Blowout Fractures

PURPOSE

To compare the outcomes of bioresorbable and permanent implants in the reconstruction of isolated orbital floor blowout fractures.

METHODS

Retrospective series of all patients who had orbital floor fracture repair in a single tertiary trauma center from January 2005 to December 2014. The authors reviewed the case notes and CT scans of patients with orbital floor fracture repair with either bioresorbable or permanent implants. Main outcome measures were enophthalmos, diplopia, and ocular motility restriction 1.5 years after fracture repair. Implant-related complications were collected for analysis.

RESULTS

There were a total of 88 patients in our study. Bioresorbable implants were used in 48 patients (54.5%) while 40 patients had permanent implants (45.5%). The authors analyzed the implants used in various sizes of orbital fractures: small (<13.3 mm), medium (13.3-20 mm), and large (>20 mm). One and a half years after fracture repair, both groups had comparable clinical outcomes (n = 2 and n = 0 for diplopia for permanent and bioresorbable implant groups, respectively, n = 0 for enophthalmos for both groups and n = 1 for ocular motility limitation for both groups) overall and across all fracture sizes.

CONCLUSION

Bioresorbable implants degrade after fracture healing through hydrolysis and promote the gradual transfer of functional forces to healing bone during its disintegration. The clinical outcomes of diplopia, enophthalmos, and ocular motility restriction associated with the use of resorbable implants are comparable to that of permanent implants for all fracture sizes. Their study shows that bioresorbable and permanent implants are equally safe and effective for the treatment of patients with isolated orbital floor blowout fractures.

A Comparison of Endoscopic Reduction for Medial Blowout Fractures Using a Bioresorbable Panel and Silastic Sheet

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness of endoscopic endonasal reduction using a bioresorbable panel and silastic sheet packed with Merocel for blowout fractures of the medial orbital wall.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 147 patients who underwent endoscopic endonasal reduction of a blowout fracture of the medial orbital wall between January 2005 and December 2016. Fifty-seven fractures were repaired using a splint formed by a silastic sheet and Merocel (splint group), whereas 90 fractures were repaired using a bioresorbable panel for interposition (interposition group). Postoperative complications and surgical outcomes of the 2 groups were compared.

RESULTS

Preoperative diplopia in both groups (n = 30) was resolved except 1 in interposition group after the reduction. Enophthalmos was resolved in 10 cases in the splint group and in 6 cases in the interposition group. In postoperative CT scans, 20 of the 57 cases in the splint group exhibited under- or overcorrection, compared with 9 of the 90 cases in the interposition group (P < 0.05). There were no sinus infections or implant-related side effects in the interposition group except for implant extrusion in 4 cases, whereas 7 cases developed sinusitis in the splint group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Endonasal endoscopic reduction using a bioresorbable panel may be considered as a surgical alternative for the treatment of medial orbital blowout fractures.

Use of Acellular Allogenic Dermal Matrix (MegaDerm) in Orbital Wall Reconstruction: A Comparison With Absorbable Mesh Plate and Porous Polyethylene

The selection of materials for orbital wall reconstruction has been a matter of debate. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an acellular allogenic dermal matrix (ADM) as an orbital wall reconstruction material and to compare the results of orbital wall reconstruction with the ADM to those of reconstruction with the more widely used absorbable mesh plate and porous polyethylene. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical charts and computed tomography images of 73 patients who underwent orbital reconstruction at 1 institution between March 2013 and February 2014. In the ADM group, the mean defect size of 29 patients was 2.89 cm. After orbital wall reconstruction with ADM, patients with preoperative enophthalmos (7 patients), limited range of eyeball movement (6 patients), and diplopia (12 patients) showed improvements. In the comparative study, the 3 groups showed no significant differences with respect to age distribution (P = 0.522), defect size (P = 0.455), and preoperative findings such as enophthalmos (P = 0.811), diplopia (P = 0.357), and limited range of eyeball movement (P = 0.795). All the preoperative symptoms improved in every group, and in the ADM group, no complication was observed during the postoperative follow-up. ADM is a biocompatible material that combines the flexibility and rigidity required to support the orbital soft tissue. Therefore, it could be an excellent alternative material for orbital wall reconstruction.

Tissue Engineering in Ophthalmology: Implications for Eyelid Reconstruction

PURPOSE

Bioengineering aims to produce functional tissue replacements to repair defects and has been widely investigated over the past few decades. We aimed to review the available literature on the application of tissue engineering in ophthalmology, with a particular focus on ophthalmic plastic surgery and potential applications for eyelid reconstruction.

METHODS

A literature search was performed on the MEDLINE database using the keywords "bioengineering," "tissue engineering," and "ophthalmology." Articles written in English were included.

RESULTS

There is a substantial body of work on tissue engineering of the cornea. Other structures in ophthalmology investigated include the conjunctiva, lacrimal gland, and orbital bone. We also discuss the potential application of tissue engineering in eyelid reconstruction.

CONCLUSION

Tissue engineering represents the future of regenerative and reconstructive medicine, with significant potential applications in ophthalmic plastic surgery.

Fenestration of Solid Orbital Implants: Reducing Retrobulbar Hematoma Rate

PURPOSE

Retrobulbar hematoma is an uncommon but potentially devastating complication following repair of orbital fractures. Since 2007, the senior author routinely fenestrates the solid porous polyethylene implants commonly used for orbital reconstruction. The perforated implant may facilitate drainage of postoperative bleeding and may potentially reduce the risk of retrobulbar hematoma. This study examines the rates of retrobulbar hematoma in patients who underwent orbital fracture reconstruction with placement of fenestrated or nonfenestrated implants.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of patients with orbital fracture reconstruction using an implant performed by the senior author between 2006 and 2016 was conducted. Data collected included age, sex, implant type, and presence of retrobulbar hematoma.

RESULTS

One hundred four patients were included in the study. One patient who was treated with a nonperforated implant was found to have a postoperative retrobulbar hematoma. The retrobulbar hematoma did not cause visual changes or increased intraocular pressure, so the patient was observed and did not undergo any surgical intervention. The hematoma resolved spontaneously without further sequela. No patients with fenestrated implants had a retrobulbar hematoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Fenestration of solid implants used in orbital floor reconstruction is simple and easy to perform, and may reduce the incidence of postoperative retrobulbar hematoma.

Reconstruction of Inferior Orbital Wall Fractures Using Bone Fragments

INTRODUCTION

Various materials have been used as implants in orbital floor fractures. The fractured bone fragments, however, are not usually used because of their small size and delicate characteristics. To overcome this limitation, the authors used autologous bone fragments combined with fibrin glue and an absorbable plate to repair inferior orbital wall fractures.

METHODS

Thirty-four patients with orbital floor fractures treated in a single center from January 2013 to September 2014 were prospectively evaluated. Patients' demographic characteristics, clinical signs and symptoms, physical examination findings, postoperative complications, and preoperative and postoperative computed tomography findings were assessed. Fracture repair by a transconjunctival approach in which bone fragments were merged with fibrin glue and an absorbable plate was performed in all the patients.

RESULTS

Postoperative computed tomography showed good orbital fracture reduction and soft tissue restoration in all the patients. Five patients developed postoperative diplopia; however, this symptom resolved spontaneously. Exophthalmometry showed that the degree of enophthalmos had improved significantly.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results of this study, the combination of autologous bone fragments and absorbable mesh appears to be a safe and feasible option for the reconstruction of orbital floor fractures.

Delayed onset porous polyethylene implant-related inflammation after orbital blowout fracture repair: four case reports

Background

Porous polyethylene implants are commonly used in orbital blowout fracture repair because of purported biocompatibility, durability, and low frequency of complications. Delayed inflammation related to porous polyethylene sheet implants is very rare and no case series of this condition have been reported.

Case Presentation

This is a retrospective review of clinical presentations, radiographic findings, histopathological findings, treatments, and outcomes of patients who developed delayed complications in orbital blowout fracture repair using porous polyethylene sheets. Four male patients were included with a mean age of 49 years (range 35–69 years). Blowout fracture repair was complicated with implant-related inflammation 10 months, 2 years, 3 years, and 8 years after surgery. Chronic and subacute orbital inflammatory signs were noted in two patients and acute fulminant orbital inflammation was found in two patients. Three patients developed peri-implant abscesses and one patient had a soft tissue mass around the implant. All patients underwent implant removal and two of these patients with paranasal sinusitis had sinus surgery. Histopathological findings revealed chronic inflammatory changes with fibrosis, and one patient had foreign body granuloma with culture positive Staphylococcus aureus.

Conclusions

Delayed complications with porous polyethylene sheets used in orbital blowout fracture repair may occur many years following the initial surgery in immunocompetent patients. Low-grade or fulminant inflammation could complicate blowout fracture repair related with the implant.

The Role of Computer-Assisted Technology in Post-Traumatic Orbital Reconstruction: A PRISMA-driven Systematic Review

Post-traumatic orbital reconstruction remains a surgical challenge and requires careful preoperative planning, sound anatomical knowledge and good intraoperative judgment. Computer-assisted technology has the potential to reduce error and subjectivity in the management of these complex injuries. A systematic review of the literature was conducted to explore the emerging role of computer-assisted technologies in post-traumatic orbital reconstruction, in terms of functional and safety outcomes. We searched for articles comparing computer-assisted procedures with conventional surgery and studied outcomes on diplopia, enophthalmos, or procedure-related complications. Six observational studies with 273 orbits at a mean follow-up of 13 months were included. Three out of 4 studies reported significantly fewer patients with residual diplopia in the computer-assisted group, while only 1 of the 5 studies reported better improvement in enophthalmos in the assisted group. Types and incidence of complications were comparable. Study heterogeneities limiting statistical comparison by meta-analysis will be discussed. This review highlights the scarcity of data on computer-assisted technology in orbital reconstruction. The result suggests that computer-assisted technology may offer potential advantage in treating diplopia while its role remains to be confirmed in enophthalmos. Additional well-designed and powered randomized controlled trials are much needed.

Endoscopic reduction of orbital medial wall fracture using rotational repositioning of the fractured: lamina papyracea fragment

Orbital fractures are frequently observed in maxillofacial trauma and can cause a wide range of functional impairments and esthetic deformities. Many approaches have been used for the repair of medial orbital wall fractures. It has been necessary to use grafts or splints in these approaches. We introduced a new technique to treat our patient with diplopia that resulted from a medial orbital fracture. In this new method that involves rotational repositioning of the fractured segment, there is no need for a graft from another location or synthetic material. This technique has several advantages compared with using synthetic materials or other types of autogenous grafts. However, the limitation of this method is that our technique cannot be applied to all cases of medial orbital wall fracture.

Evidence-based medicine: Orbital floor fractures

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Explain the epidemiology, anatomy, and pathophysiology of orbital floor fractures. 2. Select the optimal timing of--and understand the indications for-operative repair of orbital floor fractures. 3. List advantages and disadvantages of the surgical approaches and materials available for orbital floor reconstruction. 4. Identify special considerations in treating pediatric patients presenting with orbital floor fractures.

SUMMARY

This maintenance of certification module reviews the anatomy, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of orbital floor fractures in addition to special considerations for pediatric patients. The shows the evidence rating scale used for the literature review in creating this maintenance of certification article.

Controversies in orbital reconstruction--I. Defect-driven orbital reconstruction: a systematic review

In the 1980s, computed tomography was introduced as an imaging modality for diagnosing orbital fractures. Since then, new light has been shed on the field of orbital fracture management. Currently, most surgeons are likely to repair orbital fractures based on clinical findings and particularly on data obtained from computed tomography scans. However, an important but unresolved issue is the fracture size, which dictates the extent and type of reconstruction. In other fields of trauma surgery, an increasing body of evidence is stressing the importance of complexity-based treatment models. The aim of this study was to systematically review all articles on orbital reconstruction, with a focus on the indication for surgery and the defect size and location, in order to identify the reconstruction methods that show the best results for the different types of orbital fractures.

Comparison of efficacy of mandible and iliac bone as autogenous bone graft for orbital floor reconstruction

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated and compared the efficacy of mandible and iliac bone as autogenous bone graft for correction of orbital floor fractures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty patients who suffered orbital floor fractures took part in the study. The subjects enrolled in the study sustained both isolated orbital floor fracture and orbital floor fracture associated with fracture of zygomatico-maxillary complex. Each inferior orbital wall was reconstructed using either a mandible bone graft or an iliac graft. Mandibular symphysis was opted as a donor site for graft harvest from mandible and anterior iliac crest for the iliac group. CT scans were taken before the operation. Inclusion criteria consisted of at least 2 months postsurgical follow-up, pre- and post-surgical photographic documentation, and complete medical records regarding inpatient and outpatient data. To describe the distribution of complications and facilitate statistical analysis, we categorized our findings into diplopia, enophthalmos, and restriction of ocular movements before and after treatment. We also considered the time required for the harvest of the grafts and the donor site complications. A comparative study was carried out using Chi square test and student t test. We considered P value <0.05 to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

Ten iliac crest grafts and ten mandible bone grafts were placed. The mean age of the patients was 33.1 years. 80 % of the patients were males. The most common complication of orbital floor fracture was diplopia, followed by enophthalmos and restriction of ocular movements. The post operative results were compared after 2 months of the surgery. In iliac crest group, diplopia got corrected in six out of seven patients (85 %), enophthalmos in four out of five patients (80 %) and restricted ocular movement showed 100 % correction. While in mandible group, diplopia and ocular movement showed 100 % correction and enophthalmos got corrected in five out of six patients (83 %). No statistically significant differences were found between the two groups on comparing these variables. On the other hand the mean time required for the harvest of iliac graft and mandible graft was 30.2 ± 3.52 min and 16.8 ± 1.75 min respectively. The difference was statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

There is no difference in the ability of mandible and anterior iliac crest bone grafts to correct post-traumatic diplopia, enophthalmos and restricted ocular movements. But the time and ease of harvest of the graft from mandible was comparatively less and easy especially when the treating doctor was an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Secondly the post-operative morbidity was low and the quality and contour of the bone graft was very adaptable for the reconstruction of the orbital floor.

Comparison of Absorbable Mesh Plate versus Titanium-Dynamic Mesh Plate in Reconstruction of Blow-Out Fracture: An Analysis of Long-Term Outcomes

Background

A blow-out fracture is one of the most common facial injuries in midface trauma. Orbital wall reconstruction is extremely important because it can cause various functional and aesthetic sequelae. Although many materials are available, there are no uniformly accepted guidelines regarding material selection for orbital wall reconstruction.

Methods

From January 2007 to August 2012, a total of 78 patients with blow-out fractures were analyzed. 36 patients received absorbable mesh plates, and 42 patients received titanium-dynamic mesh plates. Both groups were retrospectively evaluated for therapeutic efficacy and safety according to the incidence of three different complications: enophthalmos, extraocular movement impairment, and diplopia.

Results

For all groups (inferior wall fracture group, medial wall fractrue group, and combined inferomedial wall fracture group), there were improvements in the incidence of each complication regardless of implant types. Moreover, a significant improvement of enophthalmos occurred for both types of implants in group 1 (inferior wall fracture group). However, we found no statistically significant differences of efficacy or complication rate in every groups between both implant types.

Conclusions

Both types of implants showed good results without significant differences in long-term follow up, even though we expected the higher recurrent enophthalmos rate in patients with absorbable plate. In conclusion, both types seem to be equally effective and safe for orbital wall reconstruction. In particular, both implant types significantly improve the incidence of enophthalmos in cases of inferior orbital wall fractures.

Biomaterials for repair of orbital floor blowout fractures: a systematic review

PURPOSE

To evaluate the reported use and outcomes of implant materials used for the restoration of post-traumatic orbital floor defects in adults.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic search of the English literature was performed in the databases of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE. The study selection process was adapted from the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement, and 55 articles complied with the study inclusion criteria. The primary outcome measures were diplopia, enophthalmos, graft extrusion/displacement, and infection related to the graft material. The secondary outcome measures were infraorbital paresthesia, orbital dystopia, orbital soft tissue entrapment, and donor-site complications.

RESULTS

Of 55 articles, 41 (74.5%) evaluated were retrospective case series, 9 (16.4%) were retrospective case-control studies, 3 (5.5%) were controlled trials, and 2 (3.6%) were prospective case series. Autogenous graft materials were predominantly used in 19 studies, alloplastic materials were used in 33 studies, and the remaining 3 articles reported on allogeneic materials. Overall, 19 different types of implant materials were used in 2,483 patients. Of 827 patients with diplopia before surgery, 151 (18.3%) had diplopia postoperatively. Of 449 patients with enophthalmos before surgery, 134 (29.8%) had enophthalmos postoperatively. Only 2 patients (0.1%) and 14 patients (0.6%) had graft extrusion/displacement and infection related to the graft material, respectively; alloplastic biomaterials were used in all of these cases.

CONCLUSIONS

All graft materials used were successful to variable degrees because all studies reported improvement in terms of the recorded outcome measures. A guideline for choice of implant material based on defect size was developed.

Transzygomatic Kirschner wire fixation for the treatment of blowout fracture

BACKGROUND

Total orbital floor reconstruction with sheet-shape materials is available for the treatment of extensive and crushed-type blowout fractures. Simple blowout fractures, on the other hand, require only manual reduction without fixation. Although several types of blowout fractures do not require total reconstruction, some fixation is usually necessary.

METHODS

Eighteen cases of blowout fracture were treated with transzygomatic Kirschner wire fixation between 2002 and 2009. This technique was applied to simple fracture cases in which periorbital soft tissue re-herniated through the floor defect into the maxillary sinus after manual reduction, despite improvement of the extra-ocular muscle entrapment. The wire was used to directly support the fracture segment in five cases and used together with a maxillary sinus anterior wall bone graft in 13 cases.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 12.5 months. Mild diplopia remained as a subjective symptom in one case. None of the cases developed major complications or conspicuous scars on the cheek.

CONCLUSIONS

Transzygomatic Kirschner wire fixation for blowout fracture has the advantages of precise and rigid fixation of all parts of the inferior floor, minimal morbidity without requiring an orbital approach and long-term safety without artificial remnants. This technique can be applied for the treatment of simple blowout fractures.

Nasal endoscopy-assisted reconstruction of orbital floor blowout fractures using temporal fascia grafting

PURPOSE

To present the experience and outcomes of an endoscopy-assisted reconstruction of isolated orbital floor blowout fractures using temporalis fascia grafting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective chart review of 32 patients who underwent repair of orbital floor fractures using temporalis fascia grafting from January 1, 2004, through December 1, 2009, was conducted. All procedures were performed through an upper buccal sulcus incision and a transmaxillary endoscopic approach to the orbital floor. The area of displaced bone fragments was limited to 2 cm(2) in all patients in this study. The parameters evaluated before and after surgery included visual acuity, extraocular motility and diplopia, and exophthalmometry. All patients underwent computed tomography before and 6 months after surgery.

RESULTS

None of the 32 patients had a postoperative clinical infection or obvious inflammation. Visual acuity was better than or equal to 20/100 in 43% of patients before surgery compared with 76% of patients after surgery. All patients had diplopia before surgery; only 3 had diplopia 6 months after surgery. Enophthalmos was observed in all patients before surgery, and 4 patients still displayed enophthalmos at 6 months after surgery. No sagging of the reconstructed orbital floor was found on computed tomograms 6 months after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective study is the first to show that the temporalis fascia is a reliable implant for the repair of orbital floor defects smaller than or equal to 2 cm(2).

High-density porous polyethylene wedge implant in correction of enophthalmos and hypoglobus in seeing eyes

INTRODUCTION

To report the results of post-traumatic enophthalmos/hypophthalmos correction with high-density porous polyethylene wedge implants in seeing eyes.

METHODS

This is an interventional case series of 25 patients (25 eyes) with post-traumatic enophthalmos and hypophthalmos, who underwent orbital reconstruction to correct the enophthalmos and hypophthalmos using Medpor® wedge implant. The aim was an overcorrection of 1 mm in comparison to the other eye, intra-operatively. If needed, trimming of the wedge implant or adding Medpor® sheets were used to achieve the goal. Success was defined as achieving the globe position within 1 mm of the other eye in the last follow-up. Improvement and failure were considered as correction outside the success range of 1 mm and no change in the amount of enophthalmos/hypophthalmos, respectively.

RESULTS

Patients were followed for at least 6 months (mean= 12.66, SD= 12.32). Success, improvement and failure of enophthalmos correction were: 58.3% (14/24), 37.5% (9/24) and 1 (1/24, 4.1%), respectively. Success, improvement and failure of hypophthalmos correction were 73.68% (14/19), 15.78% (3/19) and 5.26% (1/19), respectively. There was no significant difference between the success rate of enophthalmos versus hypophthalmos correction (P= 0.8). Results of 1-month follow up change in enophthalmos and hypophthalmos significantly correlated (r= 0.92, P= 0.000) with the change recorded at last follow up.

CONCLUSIONS

Porous polyethylene wedge implants are useful and safe in correction of enophthalmos and hypoglobus in seeing eyes. Appropriately positioned implant yields no significant difference in correction of enophthalmos versus hypophthalmos.

Biomaterials and implants for orbital floor repair

Treatment of orbital floor fractures and defects is often a complex issue. Repair of these injuries essentially aims to restore the continuity of the orbital floor and to provide an adequate support to the orbital content. Several materials and implants have been proposed over the years for orbital floor reconstruction, in the hope of achieving the best clinical outcome for the patient. Autografts have been traditionally considered as the "gold standard" choice due to the absence of an adverse immunological response, but they are available in limited amounts and carry the need for extra surgery. In order to overcome the drawbacks related to autografts, researchers' and surgeons' attention has been progressively attracted by alloplastic materials, which can be commercially produced and easily tailored to fit a wide range of specific clinical needs. In this review the advantages and limitations of the various biomaterials proposed and tested for orbital floor repair are critically examined and discussed. Criteria and guidelines for optimal material/implant choice, as well as future research directions, are also presented, in an attempt to understand whether an ideal biomaterial already exists or a truly functional implant will eventually materialise in the next few years.

Functional outcome after surgical treatment of orbital floor fractures

In the present article, the authors want to present the results of a retrospectively evaluated consecutive series of patients with surgically treated isolated orbital floor fractures (OFF; "blow-out fractures") concerning the functional outcome after OFF and give detailed recommendations based on the clinical and radiological findings. A series of 60 patients with isolated OFF over a 5-year period needing surgically repair at the same institution were evaluated. Patient data were analysed in terms of preoperative and postoperative clinical parameters and radiological findings. The analysed parameters were type of fracture, diplopia, gaze restriction, enophthalmos, materials used for repair, surgical approach and timing of the surgical intervention. Burst type fractures were more often found than punched-out fractures. The most frequently used surgical approach was a preseptal transconjunctival approach. An overall decrease of gaze restriction (93%), diplopia (89%) and enophthalmos (86%) was observed. According to the fracture size, we used Ethisorb patches in smaller fractures and resorbable or titanium meshes or autologous bone in larger fractures in most cases. Patients who underwent surgery more than 7 days after the trauma showed better results with regard to an improvement of diplopia and motility disturbances than patients who were treated immediately. In indicated cases, the surgical repair of OFF leads to very good results if the anatomical and functional properties of the orbit and its contents are respected. The applied strategy and means presented in our study proved of value and can therefore be recommended.

Reconstruction of orbital floor fractures using autologous nasal septal bone graft

We describe herein a new technique for reconstruction of the orbital floor, using autologous nasal septal bone and report the surgical results achieved in maxillofacial trauma patients.Prior to its clinical surgical application, a cadaver practice was carried out on 5 formalin-fixed adult human cadavers to establish the feasibility and efficacy of the method. Fifteen patients with orbital floor fractures, operated between 2005 and 2008, using this technique, were included in the current study.Cadaveric practice revealed that an adequate and appropriate size of septal bone graft can be harvested for reconstruction of the orbital floor. All patients except one had satisfactory clinical and radiologic late results. One patient experienced persistent enophthalmos, possibly due to delayed repair and associated displaced zygomatic bone fracture.Autologous nasal septal bone as an orbital floor bone graft has many advantages, including low donor site morbidity, adequacy and appropriateness of size, and similarity of its bicortical morphology and histologic nature compared with the orbital floor bone. Our clinical results strongly support that this technique can become a satisfactory alternative to existing reconstruction methods.

Nylon foil "wraparound" repair of combined orbital floor and medial wall fractures

PURPOSE

To evaluate a technique of implanting a single 0.4-mm-thick nylon foil (Supramid) continuously across combined medial wall and floor fractures within weeks of orbital trauma.

METHODS

This retrospective, interventional case series includes patients with combined medial wall and floor fractures with or without external orbital and facial fractures, without prior surgery, and who were in the early posttrauma phase. One hundred two orbits in 98 consecutive patients were treated with a "wraparound" technique. The surgical technique is provided in detail. Comatose patients, those with cranial nerve palsies, severe globe injury, anophthalmia, or previous repair of the same fractures were excluded. Patients underwent surgery from 5 to 21 days after trauma. Postoperatively (average, 6.2 months), patients were evaluated for enophthalmos, extraocular motility, and diplopia.

RESULTS

In 101 of 102 orbits, normal globe position, and full extraocular motility without diplopia was accomplished. One orbit had persistent enophthalmos, requiring a second procedure. This same patient had ipsilateral restriction in extreme upgaze, but no diplopia symptoms. This orbit had complete loss of inferomedial strut support. Overall, strut loss was not a risk factor for subsequent enophthalmos. No other patient had globe malposition, restrictive myopathy, or diplopia. Implant migration, hemorrhage, fistula, or infection was not observed. The transconjunctival and canthal wounds were hidden and tolerated by all patients with no eyelid cicatrization, webbing, or malposition.

CONCLUSIONS

The "wraparound" technique for 0.4-mm nylon foil implantation continuously across orbital floor and medial wall fractures was associated with almost no enophthalmos and diplopia in this series.