Titanium Nickelide in Midface Fractures Treatment

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial surgery
• Biomaterials science
• Orthopedic reconstructive surgery

Background:

• Reconstruction of human tissues and organs presents challenges due to strict biological and physical requirements.
• Titanium nickelide (NiTi) alloys are being investigated for their potential in medical implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of titanium nickelide constructors in treating isolated orbital floor fractures or combined zygomatico-orbital complex fractures.
• To compare NiTi implants with traditional titanium mini-plates and conservative management.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 44 patients with orbital floor and/or zygomatico-orbital complex fractures.
• Four treatment groups: NiTi osteosynthesis/endoprosthesis, titanium mini-plates, NiTi mesh endoprosthesis, and conservative management.
• Clinical outcomes including paraesthesia, diplopia, enophthalmos, and exophthalmos were quantified.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in paraesthesia between NiTi and titanium mini-plate groups.
• Absence of exophthalmos observed in NiTi groups (first and third) compared to increased enophthalmos in titanium mini-plate and conservative groups.
• Absence of diplopia in NiTi groups, with increased incidence in titanium mini-plate and conservative groups.

Conclusions:

• The elasticity and biocompatibility of titanium nickelide facilitate easier implant insertion and restoration of orbital wall anatomy.
• NiTi implants demonstrate favorable postoperative clinical results for orbital floor reconstruction.
• Titanium nickelide offers a promising alternative for managing complex orbital fractures.