Orbital fractures treated in Auckland from 2010-2015: review of patient outcomes

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this study was to review patient outcomes from surgical reconstruction of isolated orbital fractures, performed by the Auckland District Health Board (ADHB) Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery service (OMFS), from 2010 to 2015. In particular, we wished to assess titanium as an orbital reconstructive material and compare outcomes with the international literature.

Method: Hospital records for 103 adults (>18 years old) who underwent repair of isolated orbital fractures by the OMFS department at Middlemore Hospital, between 2010 and 2015, were reviewed. Information collected included patient characteristics, cause of injury, type of reconstruction material used and post-operative complications. Patients were then followed up by means of a verbal telephone questionnaire.

Results: The majority of patients were male in the 18-30 year age group, with interpersonal violence being the leading cause of injury. Titanium was the preferred choice of reconstructive material. Seven patients required return to theatre to resolve post-operative complications. Sixty-four patients could be contacted by telephone (12 months to six years follow-up). Thirty patients, who could not be contacted by telephone, did attend clinic follow-up and were assessed from their hospital records (minimum of one month follow-up). Ten patients could not be contacted by telephone and had not attended clinic follow-up. Problems with diplopia, paraesthesia and cosmesis were within complication rates reported in the literature.

Conclusion: Patients with isolated orbital fractures, treated by the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department in Auckland from 2010-2015, were reviewed. Titanium was the most commonly used reconstructive material and proved to be well tolerated. Complication rates were within international norms.