Going beyond the limitations of the non-patient-specific implant in titanium reconstruction of the orbit

Abstract

Reconstruction of post traumatic orbital defects has undergone a stepwise evolution following developments in reconstructive materials and surgical techniques. Advances in communication between surgical teams and design technicians have allowed provision of bespoke surgical plates with a high degree of accuracy and surgical relevance in an appropriate timeframe. We present a case series of 41 consecutive patients treated in London and BernBern Switzer between March 2019 and September 2020 with extensive defects reconstructed with patient specific orbital plates. Complexity of fracture was risk adjusted using the Jaquiery scale with one patient (J3), 14 patients (J4), and 26 Patients (J5). Outcome was assessed by accuracy of fit at the surgical margins and was 94.5%. The study group was statistically tested against a previous series by the same group and was statistically different with respect to the case complexity (p<0.001) and accuracy of fit (p<0.001) (Fisher’s exact test). Complications included the removal on one plate due to patient choice, with perfect surgical position and resolving diplopia. Only one plate articulation was poor, this mitigated by the size of the defect and the orbital soft tissue swelling which prohibited seating the implant. The patient remains well with acceptable function and satisfactory aesthetics. We present design considerations including the use two part plates, and surgical pearls to achieve predictable placement. We believe that the use of custom plates for reconstruction of Jaquiery 4 and 5 should be considered. We regard this technology as a game changer in surgical management of the complex high risk orbit.