ABSTRACT
Background Orbital blowout fractures are peculiar injuries causing disruption of both ocular function and symmetry. We present our experience with the use of a precontoured titanium mesh in orbital blowout fractures. Methods A retrospective study of patients undergoing correction of orbital blowout fractures with a precontoured titanium mesh was done at a tertiary care center in Mumbai. Data regarding demographics and pre- and postoperative clinical and radiological attributes were retrieved and compared. Results A total of 21 patients (19 males and 2 females) underwent correction of blowout fractures with a precontoured titanium mesh. The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 10 months. Road traffic accident (76%) was the most common etiology. Twenty (95%) patients had impure blowout fractures and 1 (5%) patient had a pure blowout. The orbital floor was most commonly fractured (16 [76%]). Associated fractures of the zygomaticomaxillary complex were found in 71% of patients. All patients were operated on within 3 weeks of trauma. A comparison of the operated and uninjured sides on coronal views of computed tomography (CT) scan in nine patients by Photopea application revealed a correction of the increased cross-sectional area in all cases. Enophthalmos was completely corrected in 94% patients, while 92% patients had complete correction of diplopia. One patient with a comminuted zygomatic fracture had persistent diplopia and mild enophthalmos. Infraorbital paresthesia persisted in 58% patients at 6 months of follow-up. No significant postoperative complications were noted. Conclusion The precontoured titanium mesh restores orbital wall anatomy and is safe, quick, fairly easy, and reproducible with a shorter learning curve. With proper patient selection and execution, prefabricated titanium mesh can serve as an excellent reconstructive option in blowout fractures of the orbit.
