Use of Prolene Mesh in the Treatment of Traumatic Midface Fractures

Midface fractures constitute a severe medical challenge due to their intricacy, incidence, and socioeconomic implications. The orbit and the maxillary sinus are the most prominent parts of the face and form the most common site of fracture. Reconstruction of these frequently observed fractures is necessary. The uses of polypropylene (prolene) mesh are numerous in general surgery, so its use and effects in the maxillofacial region can be explored. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy of prolene mesh in treating defects in the midface due to trauma, especially the orbital floor and anterior wall of the maxillary sinus. This was an observational study of 15 patients with midface fractures who had undergone reconstruction with prolene mesh for orbital floor and anterior maxillary sinus wall defects. Data collected included gender, age, type of fracture, clinical parameters (e.g., postoperative tenderness at the surgical site, infraorbital paresthesia, diplopia, pus discharge, and extrusion of graft), and radiological assessment for sinus and/or orbital floor continuity and bone formation. Regular follow-ups were done at 1 week and 1, 3, and 6 months. Among the 15 patients studied, all were males with a mean age of 30 years. The clinical assessment revealed positive functional outcomes. Radiographic assessment with postoperative CT scans at 6 months showed sinus wall and/or orbital floor continuity and bone formation. The study concluded that, with proper case selection, prolene mesh is a safe and reliable option in the reconstruction of the anterior maxillary sinus wall and orbital floor.