Hübner's tarsomarginal grafts in eyelid reconstruction: 94 cases

Preserving the integrity of the eyelid margin in eyelid reconstruction remains a challenge for plastic surgeons. In 1976, Hübner described a technique to repair full-thickness eyelid defects using a tarsomarginal graft covered with a local flap. This simple technique addresses both functional and aesthetic requirements of eyelid reconstruction by using tissue from the contralateral eyelid. The aim of this study was to determine the appropriate role of this uncommon technique in eyelid reconstruction.

In total, 94 tarsomarginal grafts were performed on 70 patients. Eight surgeons participated in this study. Data were retrospectively collected from patients' charts and all information regarding surgical indications, histology, defect size and topography, operative time, immediate result, and potential complications were recorded.

Only one of the patients suffered total necrosis. Partial wound dehiscence occurred in one case and partial necrosis occurred in 6 cases. No major sequelae were observed in the donor eyelids. In 100% of cases, eyelid margin integrity was otherwise preserved. Four patients required revision surgery for insufficient malignancy resection and 13 patients for long-term eyelid ectropion or scar retraction.

This simple and reliable technique ensured the closure of full-thickness eyelid defects covering up to 3/4 of the eyelid length. The procedure should be more widely used as it guarantees high-quality eyelid reconstruction.