Transantral endoscopic orbital floor repair using resorbable plate.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Orbital floor blowout fractures are common facial injuries.
• Traditional surgical approaches often involve lower eyelid incisions, carrying risks of scarring and ectropion.
• Minimally invasive techniques are sought to improve patient outcomes and reduce complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a transantral endoscopic approach for repairing pure orbital floor blowout fractures.
• To demonstrate a technique that avoids external lower eyelid incisions.

Main Methods:

• A transoral incision provides access to the anterior maxillary wall.
• A 1-cm² antral bone flap allows entry into the maxillary sinus and access to the orbital floor.
• A 30-degree, 4-mm endoscope is used for visualization and fracture assessment.
• Resorbable bone plating material is sized, inserted, and positioned on stable bony shelves within the orbital defect.

Main Results:

• The transantral endoscopic approach successfully repaired pure orbital floor blowout fractures.
• This technique avoids the need for lower eyelid incisions.
• Resorbable bone plates were effectively utilized, with screw fixation only required in cases of inadequate bony shelf stability.

Conclusions:

• The transantral endoscopic orbital floor approach is a viable and effective alternative for treating pure orbital floor blowout fractures.
• This minimally invasive technique reduces the risks associated with traditional lower eyelid incisions.
• The use of resorbable plating offers stable reconstruction with potential for screw fixation if necessary.