Abscessed porous polyethylene (Medpor) orbital implant: a case report

M Musadiq1, R Bhatt, H S Mudhar

  • 1Wolverhampton and Midlands Counties Eye Infirmary, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, UK.

Insights

Orbital implant infection can cause recurrent conjunctival dehiscence despite treatment. Surgical removal of the orbital implant led to complete symptom resolution, confirming deep infection.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Surgical Pathology

Background:

  • Orbital implants are used in ocular reconstruction.
  • Infection of orbital implants is a potential complication.
  • Recurrent conjunctival dehiscence can occur post-implantation.

Observation:

  • A 42-year-old man presented with recurrent conjunctival dehiscence.
  • Despite appropriate medical and surgical management, symptoms persisted.
  • The patient had a history of orbital implant placement.

Findings:

  • Histopathological examination revealed focal necrotizing acute inflammation.
  • Microbial colonies were identified within the deep substance of the orbital implant.
  • Surgical explantation of the orbital implant resulted in complete resolution of infection and dehiscence.

Implications:

  • Orbital implant explantation may be necessary for refractory infections.
  • Understanding the histopathological features aids in diagnosing deep implant infections.
  • This case highlights the challenges in managing orbital implant infections.

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