Retrospective analysis of orbital floor fracture: our clinical experience

Aim. This retrospective study aimed at investigating indications, surgical approaches, and the materials used for orbital floor reconstructions, as well as the clinical followup, particularly with regard to postoperative complications. Methods. This study comprised 120 patients who underwent surgery for orbital floor fractures between 2001 and 2011. Diagnosis and treatment were based on both physical examination and orbital CT scan. Patients were retrospectively analyzed for data, such as mechanism of injury, classification of fracture, and complications. Results. The most common cause of injury was physical assault followed by traffic accidents. Surgery was performed with a mean delay of 5 days after the incident. Subciliary lower eyelid incision was the most common surgical approach to the orbital floor, followed by mid lower eyelid incision and transconjunctival lower-eyelid approach. For orbital floor reconstruction, collagenous membrane derived from bovine pericardium (65%) is mainly used, followed by titanium mesh (35%); 18.0% of patients showed postoperative complications: 10.0% presented transient hypesthesia, 4.2% transient diplopia, 2.0% enophthalmos, 1% visible scar and 0.8% from scleral show. Conclusion. The main goal of this report is to discuss indications and timing for surgical repair of orbital floor fracture fractures and other facial fracture. Complications due to surgery are described.