[Endoscopically assisted retro-caroncular approach for medial wall fracture of the orbit: preliminary study]

The purpose of this study was to present our experience of endoscopically assisted retro-caruncular approach of medial wall fracture of orbital bone, notably concerning the accessibility and visibility.

Five consecutive patients (4 men and 1 woman) with recent fracture (1 to 3 days), underwent medial wall reconstruction with a polydioxanone plate, endoscopically assisted via a retro-caruncular approach. The surgical technique and its results are described. Helpful hints are discussed.

The plate did not have to be bent for introduction. Operative time was less than an hour for all patients. All patients were discharged the day after surgery. All experienced a mild degree of postoperative edema-related diplopia. None had persistent or secondary diplopia or enophthalmos at the one and six-month follow-up visits, respectively. Other postoperative complications, such as hematoma, nerve injury, or infection were not observed. All patients were satisfied with the outcome and especially the cosmetic result.

The retro-caruncular approach with adjunctive endoscopic surgery should be the gold standard for posttraumatic isolated medial wall reconstruction of the orbit.