Management of complications following dermis-fat grafting for anophthalmic socket reconstruction

Sixty consecutive cases of dermis-fat grafts for anophthalmic socket reconstruction were reviewed to examine the frequency, severity, and management of postoperative complications. In seven patients, the conjunctiva failed to resurface the graft and central ulceration developed. Ten cases resulted in enophthalmos. Two patients developed keratinized sockets with chronic discharge and desquamation. Three patients required excision of conjunctival granulomas. One patient developed a primary graft infection. A donor site hematoma occurred in one patient. Secondary surgical intervention was required in ten patients. Nine complications in eight patients were managed in the office; five complications in four patients were observed and subsequently resolved without surgical intervention. Most complications occurred in patients with severely traumatized sockets who had undergone extensive earlier ocular surgery, or who had a systemic disease contributing to defective wound healing.