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The bioceramic orbital implant: experience with 107 implants.
David R Jordan1, Steven Gilberg, Louise A Mawn
1University of Ottawa Eye Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. drjordan@magma.ca
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|March 20, 2003
Summary
Bioceramic orbital implants are a cost-effective alternative, showing fewer complications like exposure than hydroxyapatite implants. Common issues include discharge and exposure, particularly with pegged implants, but infection was not observed.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomaterials Science
- Medical Device Engineering
Background:
- Orbital implants are crucial for restoring aesthetics and function after enucleation.
- Bioceramic (Aluminum oxide, Al(2)O(3)) implants offer a potentially cost-effective and structurally sound alternative to existing porous options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical problems and complications associated with the use of Bioceramic orbital implants.
- To compare the complication rates of Bioceramic implants with other available porous orbital implants.
Main Methods:
- A consecutive case series of 107 patients receiving Bioceramic orbital implants was reviewed over a 3-year period.
- Data collected included patient demographics, surgical details, implant characteristics, follow-up duration, and encountered complications.
- Complications were analyzed, with a specific focus on implant-related issues and problems associated with the peg system.
Main Results:
- Out of 100 patients with adequate follow-up (3-38 months), 11% experienced implant-related problems.
- The most frequent issues were discharge (5%) and implant exposure (2%).
- Pegged implants had a higher complication rate (34.3%), including discharge and exposure, though no infections occurred.
Conclusions:
- Bioceramic orbital implants are biocompatible, structurally robust, and economical.
- Complication rates appear lower than those reported for hydroxyapatite implants, particularly regarding exposure.
- While peg-related issues exist, the Bioceramic implant presents a viable alternative for orbital reconstruction.