Individually preformed titanium mesh implants for a true-to-original repair of orbital fractures

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation is to present the results using preoperatively-formed titanium mesh implants for a true-to-original primary repair of extensive orbital floor and medial wall fractures. Individually preformed implants were used to repair extensive orbital floor injuries in 19 patients at the University Hospital, Freiburg. The form of the orbital floor and walls was analysed by preoperative diagnostic CT scan data. The form of the virtual reconstructed orbit was transformed into a model of the orbital cavity by a template machine. Postoperative imaging by or CT scan verified the exact 3D reconstruction of the orbital cavity 'true to original'. None of the patients demonstrated diplopia or enophthalmos postoperatively. Using individually preformed titanium mesh implants, the accuracy of the 3D orbital reconstruction was within a range of 1mm. The reconstruction using preformed implants proved to be less time consuming, more precise and less invasive, compared to 'free hand' efforts, for the repair of orbital injuries using titanium mesh and calvarial grafts.