Maxillary reconstruction with horizontally oriented scapular tip free flap: outcomes in orbital support and palate closure.

BACKGROUND: Current indications of maxillary reconstruction with scapular tip free flap (STFF) are palatoalveolar defects associated with zygomaticomaxillary buttress and/or orbital floor defects. STFF can be placed either horizontally or vertically. Horizontal placement usually allows ideal palatal conformation, preventing oronasal communication, but has been argued to compromise orbital support and projection of the midface, whereas vertical placement is advocated for midface support but may be insufficient for the complete closure of the palate. The present study focuses on the horizontal placing of STFF to allow complete palate reconstruction and fistulae prevention while still obtaining optimal midface projection and orbital support. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 21 case complex maxillary reconstructions with this flap, in which the horizontally placed scapular tip component replaced the palate, a muscular flap component was included for midface volume restoration, and an alloplastic implant was utilized for supporting the orbital content when needed. RESULTS: None of the patients presented palatal fistulas or alterations in the orbital support. CONCLUSION: A multilevel approach was proposed according to the maxillectomy defect. This experience supported the horizontal insetting of STFF to allow palatal fistulae prevention while still obtaining an optimal midface projection and orbital support.

Classical Orbital Floor Post-Traumatic Reconstruction vs. Customized Reconstruction with the Support of "In-House" 3D-Printed Models: A Retrospective Study with an Analysis of Volumetric Measurement.

BACKGROUND: Orbital floor fractures (OFFs) represent an interesting chapter in maxillofacial surgery, and one of the main challenges in orbit reconstruction is shaping and cutting the precise contour of the implants due to its complex anatomy. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the retrospective study was to demonstrate, through pre- and postoperative volumetric measurements of the orbit, how the use of a preformed titanium mesh based on the stereolithographic model produced with 3D printers ("In-House" reconstruction) provides a better reconstruction volumetric compared to the intraoperatively shaped titanium mesh. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The patients with OFF enrolled in this study were divided into two groups according to the inclusion criteria. In Group 1 (G1), patients surgically treated for OFF were divided into two subgroups: G1a, patients undergoing orbital floor reconstruction with an intraoperatively shaped mesh, and G1b, patients undergoing orbital floor reconstruction with a preoperative mesh shaped on a 3D-printed stereolithographic model. Group 2 (G2) consisted of patients treated for other traumatic pathologies (mandible fractures and middle face fractures not involving orbit). Pre- and postoperative orbital volumetric measurements were performed on both G1 and G2. The patients of both groups were subjected to the measurement of orbital volume using Osirix software (Pixmeo SARL, CH-1233 Bernex, Switzerland) on the new CT examination. Both descriptive (using central tendency indices such as mean and range) and regressive (using the Bravais-Pearson index, calculated using the GraphPad program) statistical analyses were performed on the recorded data. RESULTS: From 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2021, of the 176 patients treated for OFF at the "Magna Graecia" University Hospital of Catanzaro 10 fulfilled the study's inclusion criteria: 5 were assigned to G1a and 5 to G1b, with a total of 30 volumetric measurements. In G2, we included 10 patients, with a total of 20 volumetric measurements. From the volumetric measurements and statistical analysis carried out, it emerged that the average of the volumetric differences of the healthy orbits was ±0.6351 cm3, the standard deviation of the volumetric differences was ±0.3383, and the relationship between the treated orbit and the healthy orbit was linear; therefore, the treated orbital volumes tend to approach the healthy ones after surgical treatment. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that if the volume is restored within the range of the standardized mean, the diplopia is completely recovered already after surgery or after one month. For orbital volumes that do not fall within this range, functional recovery could occur within 6 months or be lacking. The restoration of the orbital volume using pre-modeled networks on the patient's anatomical model, printed internally in 3D, allows for more accurate reconstructions of the orbital floor in less time, with clinical advantages also in terms of surgical timing.

Intraosseous Hemangioma of the Zygomatic Bone with Multidisciplinary Approach to Surgical Resection and Orbital Reconstruction.

Background: Intraosseous hemangiomas are rare benign tumors comprising fewer than 1% of all osseous tumors; even more uncommon are intraosseous hemangiomas of the zygomatic bone. This case reports a multidisciplinary approach for excision and reconstruction of an intraosseous hemangioma of the zygomatic bone in a 54-year-old female. Methods: Multidisciplinary approach with both otolaryngology head and neck surgery and oculofacial plastics and reconstructive surgery included right lateral canthotomy and right transconjunctival orbitotomy with en-bloc excision of the zygomatic arch, followed by reconstruction of the orbital rim, orbital floor, and eyelid with Medpor implant. Results: Final surgical pathology was consistent with intraosseous hemangioma of the zygomatic bone. At 4-month follow-up, the patient was healing well with good midface projection and without any visual deficits. Conclusions: A multidisciplinary coordinated case allowed us to meet the standard of maintaining cosmesis and function while undergoing resection of a rare tumor involving a key facial structure-the zygoma. Involvement of oculofacial plastics and reconstructive surgery service allowed for advanced eyelid reconstruction techniques to limit any functional impairment to our patient with deliberate choice of implant material for well-adhered, durable, and aesthetically optimal reconstruction of the right malar eminence, lateral orbital rim, and orbital floor defect. The postoperative result through the multidisciplinary approach was a near symmetrical facial reconstruction without any associated eyelid or globe abnormalities.

The impact of polydioxanone (PDS) foil thickness on reconstruction of the orbital geometry after isolated orbital floor fractures.

PURPOSE: The orbital floor is frequently involved in head trauma. Current evidence on the use of reconstruction materials for orbital floor repair is inconclusive. Accordingly, this study aimed to compare the impact of polydioxanone (PDS) foil thickness on reconstruction of the orbital geometry after isolated orbital floor fractures. METHODS: Standardized isolated orbital floor fractures were symmetrically created in 11 cadaver heads that provided 22 orbits. PDS foils with thicknesses of 0.25-0.5 mm were inserted. Computed tomography (CT) scans of the native, fractured, and reconstructed orbits were obtained, and orbital volume, orbital height, and foil bending were measured. RESULTS: Orbital volume and height significantly (p < 0.01) increased after the creation of isolated orbital floor fractures and significantly (p = 0.001) decreased with overcorrection of the orbital geometry after orbital floor reconstruction with PDS 0.25 mm or PDS 0.5 mm. The orbital geometry reconstruction rate did not differ significantly with respect to foil thickness. However, compared to PDS 0.5 mm, the use of PDS 0.25 mm resulted in quantitatively higher reconstructive accuracy and a restored orbital volume that did not significantly differ from the initial volume. CONCLUSION: Orbital floors subjected to isolated fractures were successfully reconstructed using PDS regardless of foil thickness, with overcorrection of the orbital geometry. Due to its lower flexural stiffness, PDS 0.25 mm appeared to provide more accurate orbital geometry reconstruction than PDS 0.5 mm, although no significant difference in reconstructive accuracy between PDS 0.25 mm and PDS 0.5 mm was observed in this cadaveric study.

Delayed orbital floor implant complications: Case report and review of the literature.

Purpose: Foreign body reaction to non-absorbable alloplastic orbital implants utilized for bony reconstruction are infrequently documented in the literature. We present the workup and surgical management of a giant cystic mass encapsulating a patient's alloplastic orbital implant, which was ultimately deemed to be a result of foreign body reaction. Observations: A 41-year-old male patient with distant history of a right orbital floor fracture had undergone repair with the placement of a nylon foil implant. The patient presented twenty years later with progressive ipsilateral globe proptosis and was found to have a giant inferior orbital cyst. Surgical exploration and removal of the implant and capsule were performed. Histopathology confirmed a delayed foreign body reaction around the patient's alloplastic implant. Conclusions: Alloplastic implants may result foreign body reaction and cyst encapsulation as a delayed complication.

Silent Sinus Syndrome Post Trauma: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Silent sinus syndrome (SSS) is a relatively rare clinical condition occurring in the maxillary sinus exhibiting progressive enophthalmos and hypoglobus. The communication between the orbit and maxillary antrum due to trauma further leads to changes in the maxillary sinus. This could lead to the development of negative pressure within the maxillary sinus, collapse of antrum walls, and sucking in of orbital contents. Here, we present a case of a delayed orbital trauma, which was not treated initially. The patient's complaint was a constant feeling of a sunken right eye along with restriction in eye movements. On examination, the clinical and radiographic features were consistent with SSS. Orbital floor reconstruction was performed with the help of a titanium mesh for the correction of hypoglobus and enophthalmos. During follow-up, the patient showed no recurrence of the presenting functional and esthetic complaints. This clinical entity needs prompt diagnosis and early intervention so as to prevent further complications.

Quality of life after reconstruction of traumatic orbital floor defects using titanium mesh and medpore: A randomised controlled trial.

AIM AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to analyse the outcomes of orbital floor reconstruction with two types of orbital implants and assess patients' quality of life. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 39 sequential patients with clinical and radiological evidence of orbital floor fracture, presenting diplopia, enophthalmos, paraesthesia or a post traumatic residual orbital deformity were included in this study and randomised for orbital floor reconstruction using porous polyethylene sheet (Biopore™) or preshaped titanium mesh on a 3D model. Their pre and postoperative quality of life were compared. Success rate was assessed and scored with a minimum of zero (none) and a maximum of ten (excellent) for improvement in the signs of diplopia, enophthalmos, hypoglobus, paraesthesia and aesthetics. RESULTS: Both QOL scores and Success score was greater in cases which reconstruction of orbital floor was performed with preshaped titanium mesh as compared to those with Biopore™. CONCLUSION: Preshaped titanium mesh shows better results than reconstruction with Biopore™. However a large sample size and a long term follow up is needed for generating the best evidence. Quality of life extensively improves after orbital floor reconstruction motivating the patients desire to live.

Feasibility of Endoscopically Assisted Repair of Zygomatico-Maxillary Complex Orbital Fractures: Case Series.

AIM: To assess the feasibility and the outcome of endoscopically assisted repair of zygomatico-maxillary complex orbital fractures in a tertiary care hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive study was carried out over a period of 2 years (01. 11. 2014-31. 10. 2016). 0°-4 mm endoscopes were used for intra-operative endoscopic exploration. Regular armamentarium for management of maxillofacial trauma along with standard plating systems was used. Commercially available medical grade titanium meshes were utilised for orbital floor reconstruction. RESULTS: Fifty-seven of hundred and twelve surgically managed zygomatico-maxillary complex fractures required orbital exploration. Twenty-one of these had reconstruction of the orbital floor. Endoscopically assisted exploration was performed in 10 of the 21; trans-nasally in three cases, the Caldwell-Luc approach was used in three cases, and in another three, the existing fracture in the anterior wall of the maxilla was utilised. In addition, an endoscopic trans-nasal-sphenoidal approach was opted for to access the orbital apex to manage fractured bone fragments that were impinging on the optic nerve in one of the patients. CONCLUSION: Endoscopes serve as the primary tool in minimally invasive procedures. They are yet to evolve as a major role player in the maxillofacial arena. The authors conclude that endoscopes are truly beneficial as an adjunct to existing techniques. They hold much promise for the future.

Use of CAD-based pre-bent implants reduces theatre time in orbital floor reconstruction: results of a prospective study.

In this prospective study we evaluated the duration of insertion and the accuracy of fitting of computer-aided design (CAD)-based pre-bent orbital floor plates compared with non-preformed orbital plates in reconstruction of the orbital floor. Thirty-six patients with unilateral fractures of the orbital floor were included; pre-bent plates were used in 25 and non-preformed plates in 11. Preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans were used for CAD of individualised implants. The anatomy of the affected orbit was virtually reconstructed "slice by slice". Individually pre-bent plates were generated using a stereolithographic model of the reconstructed orbit. The mean (SD) duration of insertion was significantly reduced when pre-bent orbital plates were used (5.5 (5.4) min) compared with non-preformed meshes (11.1 (7.7) min). The congruence of pre-bent plates to the infraorbital rim did not differ from that of non-preformed plates. The accuracy of fit was rated as "accurate" in 24 cases. CAD-based individualised titanium meshes reduce theatre time compared with non-preformed orbital plates. Our results confirm the efficacy of CAD-based pre-bent plates in reconstruction of the orbital floor.

Application of three-dimensional printing technology in orbital floor fracture reconstruction.

IMPORTANCE: Orbital floor fracture is common among patients suffering from facial trauma. Open reduction and reconstruction of the orbital floor with Medpor is the treatment of choice in our centre to correct diplopia and enophthalmos. OBJECTIVE: Application of locally available 3D printing service in perioperative planning of orbital floor reconstruction with porous polyethylene. DESIGN: We present two patients who suffered from orbital floor fracture complicated by diplopia. Open reduction and orbital floor reconstruction with Medpor was performed with the guidance of a 3D printed customized model of the orbital floor defect. PARTICIPANTS: Both patients were admitted through the Emergency Department to surgical ward after facial trauma. CT scan of the face showed orbital floor fracture with entrapment of inferior rectus muscle. Clinically patients also suffered from diplopia on extreme gaze. RESULTS: With the aid of 3D printed model, it shortened operative time and duration of anaesthesia. Defect-specific Medpor could be trimmed and molded easily from the model and thus reduced fatigue of the material. Furthermore, the model was helpful in patient education and explanation of the surgical procedure. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Application of 3D printing in medical specialties is rapidly developing in the past few years. In orbital floor fracture reconstruction, 3D printed model provides a customized solution, decreases operative time and duration of anaesthesia.

Study of anatomical variations of the zygomaticofacial foramen and calculation of reliable reference points for operation.

Dissection on to the facial aspect of the zygoma is common in procedures of the midface for trauma, craniofacial deformity, and cosmesis. These procedures carry the risk of injury to the neurovascular structures that exit from the zygomaticofacial foramen (ZFF). The purpose of this study was to map the ZFF, and to establish reliable reference points from which to identify it before and during operation. We also aimed to compare the anatomy of the ZFF between sexes and among geographical populations. A total of 429 adult skulls from nine geographical sites were used. A cross-line laser was superimposed on to each zygoma to generate consistent landmarks (lines 1 and 2) from which to measure the ZFF, and the number of ZFF on each zygoma was recorded. The site and incidence of ZFF differed significantly among geographical populations, but not between sexes. Of all 858 sides, no foramina were found in 16.3%, one foramen in 49.8%, two foramina in 29%, three in 3.4% and four in 1.4%. A total of 93% of foramina were within a 25mm diameter zone (ZFF zone) centred 5mm anterior to the intersection of lines 1 and 2 on the right zygoma, and 94% were within equivalent measurements on the left. Using these landmarks, we propose a new method of identifying a ZFF zone that is irrespective of sex or geographical population. This technique may be useful in the prevention of iatrogenic damage to the ZFF neurovascular bundle during procedures on the midface and in local nerve blocks.

Use of human nail for reconstruction of the orbital floor: an experimental study in rabbits.

The orbital floor is the thinnest part of the orbital wall, and in 20% of all maxillofacial injuries it is fractured. Autografts, allografts, and alloplastic materials are used in reconstruction, but there is no consensus about which material is the most appropriate. Nail is a semirigid material that is easy to reshape and is not antigenic. Alloplastic materials, which are used in reconstructions of the orbital floor, have various complications and are expensive. Autografts have donor-site problems, high rates of resorption, and take a long time to do. We created bilateral 10mm defects in the orbital floors in 18 New Zealand rabbits. We reconstructed the left orbital floors with double-ground human nail while the right orbital floors were left open as controls. The orbital floors were examined macroscopically and microscopically at 4, 8, and 12 weeks postoperatively, and there were no macroscopic signs of infection, inflammation, or extrusion. Forced duction tests showed that it was possible to induce movement of the eyeball for all 18 of the reconstructed sides throughout the observation period, and in 14 of the 18 rabbits on the control sides. Positive forced duction test shows us that orbital muscles are trapped in orbital floor defect and due to this movement of eyeball is restricted. Acute and chronic inflammation, fibrosis, vascularisation, and the presence of foreign body giant cells were evaluated microscopically. Acute inflammation and the presence of foreign body giant cells were recorded as mild, whereas fibrosis, chronic inflammation, and vascularisation were severe, as were epithelialisation on the maxillary sinus side of the nails, calcification, and progression of collagen. We found no signs of resorption of the nails.

Orbital floor reconstruction using a tensor fascia lata sling after total maxillectomy.

PURPOSE: Reconstruction after total maxillectomy with extensive orbital floor defects poses a significant challenge for the reconstruction. The aim of this study is to present the outcomes of orbital floor reconstruction using tensor fascia lata slings after total maxillectomy and to compare these results to orbital floor reconstruction using alloplastic implants. METHOD: This was a retrospective analysis of 19 consecutive patients who underwent tumor resection with orbital floor removal for malignancies. Reconstructions were performed using either tensor fascia lata slings (Group A) or alloplastic implants (Group B). The early and late postoperative outcomes such as wound infection, plate exposure, ectropion, diplopia, and enophthalmos, were analyzed and compared between the two groups. RESULTS: Patients in group A had significantly less wound complication than in group B (p < 0.05). In group A, there were no early or late wound complications after the operation. However, in group B, five patients had infection, the plate was exposed in eight of fourteen patients, and three patients had enophthalmos. Eight patients in group B underwent reoperation to correct their complications. CONCLUSIONS: Reconstruction of the orbital floor with a tensor fascia lata sling offers reliable support to the globe and prevents the ophthalmic complications associated with loss of orbital support.

Redesign and treatment planning orbital floor reconstruction using computer analysis anatomical landmarks.

Orbital floor fractures are one of the most commonly encountered maxillofacial fractures due to their weak anatomical structure. Restoration of the orbital floor following a traumatic injury or a tumor surgery is often difficult due to inadequate visibility and lack of knowledge on its anatomical details. The aim of this study is to investigate the locations of the inferior orbital fissure (IOF), infraorbital groove (G), and infraorbital foramen (Fo) and their relationship with the orbital floor using a software. Measurements from the inferior orbital rim (IOR) using the Fo, the IOF, G, and the optic canal (OC) were calculated in 268 orbits as reference points. The surgical landmarks from the G and the OC, the G and the IOF, the G and the intersection point were measured as 31.6 ± 6, 12.9 ± 4, and 12 ± 5 mm, respectively. The mean distances between the G and the IOR, the Fo and the IOF, and the Fo and the OC were found as 8.3 ± 2.1, 28.7 ± 3.5, and 53.6 ± 5.9 mm, respectively. The mean angles were calculated as OC-IOF-G 68.1° ± 16.4°; intersection-G-IOF as 61.4° ± 15.8°; IOF-OC-G as 19° ± 5.5°; OC-G-intersection as 31.5° ± 11.9°, G-intersection-OC as 129.5°, IOF-intersection-G as 50.5°. Furthermore, variable bony changes on the orbital floor which may lead to the differences at intersection point of the G and Fo were determined. In 28 specimens (20.9 %), unilateral accessory Fo (AcFo) was present. In 27 specimens, AcFo was situated supermaedially (96.4 %) on the main aperture. In one specimen, two intraorbital canals and Fo emerged from different points and coursed into different apertures. The measured mean distances of the AcFo-IOR and the AcFo-Fo were as 7 ± 2 and 7.3 ± 3.2 mm, respectively. The primary principle in the oculoplastic treatment of orbital floor reconstructions must be repositioning the herniated orbital aperture by maintaining the infraorbital artery and the nerve in the orbital floor. The IOF and the G were recommended as the more reliable oculoplastic surgical landmarks for identifying the orbital floor. To avoid pinching of the orbital floor structures, the triangle (IS-G-IOF) should be equilateral with an exigence of a 70° angle within it. Among each distance of the intersection-IOF, IOF-G, G-intersection should be equal. With the help of certain software, this study made possible to investigate the variability of the orbital floor structures, observe the variety in measurements and calculate the parameters which are crucial in implementing personalized reconstruction and implanting support.

Polypropylene Darning: A New Alternative for Reconstruction of Orbital Floor after Total Maxillectomy.

Removal of orbital floor is an integral part of total (radical) maxillectomy (type IIIa), which if not managed properly, may lead to some eye related distressing complications like diplopia, eyelid malposition, epiphora, dacryocystitis, enopthalmos and ectoprion. Among all, diplopia is the most distressing complication which hampers daily activity. Various options for orbital floor reconstruction are available like titanium sheet, polypropylene mesh, non-vascularized or vascularized bone graft, pedicled flaps, micro-vascular free flaps, prosthesis placement, and split skin graft followed by obturator placement. Till date no-body has tried stabilization of eye ball by 'darning' the orbital floor using non-absorbable suture. 'Polypropylene suture darning' is an easy to learn, novel method with equally good results. Five patients with potentially resectable tumors underwent total maxillectomy. I used polypropylene 3-0 round body suture and 'darning' was done at orbital floor, incorporating periosteum (if remaining) and peri-orbital fat into the sutures. Muscle flaps were done to provide bulk and palatal reconstruction. Assessment of patients was done post-operatively at day-5 i.e., before discharge and at 1 month after surgery, and also in further follow up visits. The results were very good in terms of clear vision & eye movements (directly related to 'darning'), and the aesthetic look of patients and bilateral symmetry were satisfactory (not related to darning). Darning of orbital floor by polypropylene after total maxillectomy is an easy to learn and cost-effective method of reconstruction with good results.

Mechanical properties of collagen membranes modified with pores--are they still sufficient for orbital floor reconstruction?

Adequate mechanical strength is essential for materials used to reconstruct the orbital floor, and collagen membranes have recently been suggested for the repair of isolated fractures of the orbital floor. However, their mechanical properties after modification with pores for increased drainage of blood into the sinus have not been sufficiently investigated. We have tested the mechanical resistance of polydioxanone foils (PDS) to distortion and compared it with that of 3 resorbable collagen membranes (Smartbrane(®), Bio-Gide(®), and Creos(®)) in mint condition and when artificially aged (3 weeks, 6 weeks, and 8 weeks) after modification with pores (diameter 2mm) in a standard configuration (n=12 in each group). PDS and Creos(®) had comparable initial values for mechanical resistance of about 2.3N/mm(2), and Bio-Gide(®) and Smartbrane(®) had about 20% and 80% lower initial mechanical resistance, respectively. All materials tested had lower values after artificial ageing. After eight weeks of ageing, PDS lost about 99% of its initial mechanical resistance, Creos(®) about 66%, Bio-Gide(®) about 30%, and Smartbrane(®) about 95%. After 3 weeks the mechanical resistance in all groups was significantly less than the initial values (p=0.05), but there was no difference between samples aged artificially for 6 compared with 8 weeks. The mechanical resistance of the tested materials was not influenced by the presence of pores in a standard configuration and was in the appropriate range for moderate fractures of the orbital floor. We recommend further clinical investigations of collagen membranes modified with pores.

Blowout fracture-orbital floor reconstruction using costochondral cartilage causing pain, warping, and diplopia.

Orbital floor reconstruction is the most challenging component in the midfacial trauma management. Most often owing to the complexity of the fractures, the floor reconstruction requires grafts or other substitutes. Literature reveals several sources of autogenous sources of such grafts. Though most of the grafts are well taken and gives an ideal result, at certain instances, owing to the complex nature of the graft, its biochemical nature, reaction to the grafting, biochemical response, a reactionary change may result at late stages. The aim of this manuscript is to present a rare instance of warping of a costochondral graft that was used as a part of the orbital floor reconstruction giving rise to an ophthalmic emergency. The situation was immediately diagnosed and successfully managed. The situation, structural, and biochemical mechanisms behind such a phenomenon are discussed.

Structural pedicled mucochondral-osteal nasoseptal flap: a novel method for orbital floor reconstruction after sinonasal and skull base tumor resection.

Unrepaired orbital floor defects after sinonasal and skull-base tumor resection can lead to herniation of orbital contents into the maxillary or ethmoidal sinuses, possibly resulting in infection and significant cosmetic and functional deficits. Orbital floor defects are usually repaired using prosthetic implants or autogenous material. Nasal septal cartilage has been used previously as a free graft for reconstruction. However, its reliance on local vascular supply can result in ischemia and necrosis in the postoperative period. The vascularized pedicled nasoseptal flap, consisting of mucoperichondrium and mucoperiosteum, is routinely used as an effective reconstruction method for endoscopic repair of cerebrospinal fluid leaks arising from skull base dural defects. However, this flap does not provide rigid structural reconstruction when used alone. We report a case of an orbital floor defect repaired using a pedicled mucochondral-osteal nasoseptal flap. This technique incorporates the structural component of the nasal septal cartilage and bone with the vascularized pedicled nasoseptal flap. This repair technique may be useful in patients requiring postoperative radiotherapy.

Use of anteriolateral wall of maxilla for reconstruction of orbital floor fracture: A clinical study.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to assess the utility of anterolateral wall of maxilla as a bone graft to reconstruct the continuity of orbital floor. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was carried out at Datarkar Institute of Maxillofacial Surgery, Pratap Nagar, Nagpur. Out of five patients selected, three were male and two were female. All the patients had intact anterolateral wall of maxilla on contralateral side. In all the patients the reduction of the zygomatic complex fracture was done by Keen's approach. The fractures were stabilized by miniplates. From the contralateral sides,bone graft of 1.5 × 2 cm size was harvested from which were intact in all the patients. All the patients were reviewed at regular interval, initially once every week for 1 month, followed by once in every month for next 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Five patients with orbital floor defects of medium size average 1.16 cm size (range 0.8-1.5 cm) were grafted by using autogenous bone graft harvested from anterolateral wall of maxilla. All the patients were successfully reconstructed with restoration of the orbital wall continuity. We have not come across any complications like infection, exposure, and extrusion of the graft. Only one patient did not show much improvement in enopthalmous where the size of the defect was large. CONCLUSIONS: The use of harvested bone graft from the anterolateral wall of the maxilla is better option for the reconstruction of orbital floor defects.