Reconstruction of complex orbital exenteration defects: a single center's experience with a five-year follow-up

Orbital exenteration presents a challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. Defects may be treated with split skin grafts, local advancement flaps, or free flap coverage. There are few published series showing the long-term outcomes of reconstruction. Our results, with at least a 5-year follow-up, are presented.

A retrospective review of 15 immediate reconstructions after orbital exenterations for malignancies in 12 patients at a tertiary referral center over a 5-year period, was done. All flaps were followed up for at least 5 years (mean, 75 months; range, 3-118 months).

Malignancies included squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, meningioma, sebaceous gland carcinoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma. Eight cervicofacial rotation-advancement flaps and 4 anterolateral thigh, 1 rectus abdominis, and 1 radial forearm free tissue transfers were used. Aggressive postoperative radiotherapy (9/15) was well tolerated by both regional and free flaps. Both cervicofacial flaps in previously irradiated patients had wound dehiscence or fistula formation. Six (50%) patients died during follow-up, 4 of whom (33%) died of tumor recurrence.

Flap reconstruction after complex orbital exenteration is associated with low morbidity. Cervicofacial rotation-advancement flaps offer reliable, single-stage, aesthetically pleasing reconstructions. They should be avoided in the previously irradiated. Free tissue transfer is indicated for volume replacement, after previous radiotherapy, after tumor recurrence and previous use of locoregional flaps. Reconstruction of complex orbital exenteration defects for malignancies should be undertaken in centers with experience in the management of these procedures.