[The use of latex biomembrane in exenteration: case report]

The latex biomembrane is a material from Hevea brasiliensis and has angiogenic properties, cellular adhesion and extracellular matrix formation. It has been used for the treatment of ulcers in the inferior extremities caused by diabetes, chronic vascular insufficiency and timpanic perforations. In this study we report a case of biomembrane use to promote granulation in the orbital cavity after exenteration in a male, 72 years, who came into our service with a left eyelid lesion for two years. The ocular examination revealed a hyperemic conjunctiva, corneal thinning, cataract and ocular perforation in the left eye. The right eye had no alterations. There was an expansive and ulcerated lesion with orbital septum, frontal bone and lamina papiracea invasion confirmed by tomography. A total exenteration of the cavity was made and the biomembrane was applied to the affected site. Changes were made every 24 hours in the first seven days, and every other day in the following seven days. The biomembrane had to be taken from the patient because no granulation could be seen. Just one occurred and a half month later. Exenteration is a procedure in which all of the orbital content is removed. If the eyelids are included it is called total exenteration. There are many exenteration techniques as spontaneous granulation, skin grafts, miocutaneous flap, etc. In this case we used a material which has been successfully applied for other wounds, but with no efficiency in our experience. More studies are necessary so that we can present benefits to our patients in the ophthalmologic area with the latex biomembrane.