Naso-ethmoid-orbital fractures: classification and role of primary bone grafting

A detailed review of 80 patients with severe naso-ethmoid-orbital injuries has facilitated the classification of these injuries into five types. The recognition and diagnosis of each specific injury pattern will define the correct treatment choice in each instance. Special attention should be focused on injuries with comminution and bone loss in the medial wall and floor of the orbit, with loss of cartilaginous nasal support, and with orbital displacement and dystopia. An open, direct approach to these fractures with meticulous reduction, internal fixation, and repair of the medial canthal ligaments provides optimal repair. The use of craniofacial surgical techniques and immediate bone graft replacement of missing or severely damaged bone will allow reconstruction of even the most difficult injuries in one stage. Two hundred and eighteen primary bone grafts have been utilized in 49 patients. No significant complications with their use have occurred. The incidence of nasolacrimal system injury in naso-ethmoid-orbital injuries is less than suspected. Eight of 46 patients (17.4 percent) required a dacryocystorhinostomy for persistent nasolacrimal system obstruction. Immediate assessment or exploration of the nasolacrimal system is not performed. Delayed assessment and dacryocystorhinostomy resulted in the relief of nasolacrimal system obstruction in all cases.