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Facial Plast Surg 2000; Volume 16(Number 1): 63-68
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-7327
Copyright © 2000 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Alloplastic Implants for Orbital Wall Reconstruction

Andrew A. Jacono1 , Bruce Moskowitz2
  • 1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
  • 2Department of Opthalmology, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY.
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Nonabsorbable alloplastic implants for orbital wall reconstruction have been widely accepted by surgeons because of their ready availability, stability, and biocompatability. Many complications have arisen with this class of implants because the lack of host tissue integration allows for implant migration, implant extrusion, recurrent hemorrhage, and infection. Porous polyethylene implants provide a welcome alternative as they have the unique properly of supporting tissue ingrowth in vivo. Their semirigid structure provides structural stability when used around the orbit, and their malleability allows for easy contouring. This paper presents our surgical approach to reconstructing orbital defects with porous polyethylene implants, including orbital floor, and superior, medial, and lateral wall defects, and discusses the advantages/disadvantages of other nonabsorbable alloplasts.

KEYWORD

reconstruction - porous polyethylene - Medpor - alloplasts