Tumi Flap: A Novel Modification to Frontal Flap for Orbital Exenteration Defects

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Orbital exenteration, a procedure to remove orbital contents, often results in significant facial disfigurement.
• Current reconstructive options for orbital defects are varied, with local flaps commonly used in elderly patients.
• Local flaps often lack the necessary 3-dimensional adaptation, requiring secondary procedures for optimal orbital contouring.

Observation:

• This case report introduces a novel frontal flap design.
• The design is inspired by the Tumi knife, an ancient Peruvian trepanation instrument.
• This unique design facilitates the creation of a conic shape for orbital reconstruction.

Findings:

• The Tumi knife-inspired frontal flap allows for immediate 3-dimensional resurfacing of the orbital cavity during the primary operation.
• This technique aims to achieve better orbital adaptation without the need for secondary interventions.
• The conic shape created by the flap aids in restoring orbital volume and contour.

Implications:

• This innovative flap design presents a promising solution for single-stage orbital defect reconstruction.
• It may reduce the need for secondary procedures, improving patient quality of life.
• The technique offers a novel approach to achieving functional and aesthetic restoration after orbital exenteration.