Reconstruction of the traumatic eyelid injuries: a 6-years experience

Our aim is focused on the management of eyelid injuries and on the chose different techniques for the reconstruction. The reconstructions of the upper eyelid and lower eyelid should be based on both functional and cosmetic aspects.

We looked at 47 patients from 2005 to 2011 with eyelid injuries. All patients were subjected to a surgical treatment.

After a median follow-up from one to five years, in all cases the skin coverage was reinstated and mobility was restored, thereby adhering to the principles of both morphological and functional reconstruction.

Eyelids are complex structures and pose a challenge for reconstruction. They play an important role in protecting the globe from trauma, excessive light and in maintaining the integrity of tear films and moving the tears toward the lacrimal drainage system. Concerning reconstruction by means of flap, the main principles dictate that with this procedure the new coverage will appear as much as possible, "like" the original tissue.

There are different techniques available for reconstructions of defects of eyelids. The availability of tissues, technical expertise and the specific needs of the patient have to kept in mind before choosing a particular method. Compared with other frequently used techniques, the nasal chondromucosal flap is a one-stage operation, does not damage the lower lid, and provides a thin, mobile eyelid with an anatomically complete reconstruction.