Minimal Invasive and Cost-effective Method in Reduction of Maxillofacial Fracture by Using a Foley Catheter Ballooning Technique

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to introduce 2 successful cases of orbital inferior wall fracture and maxillary sinus anterior wall fracture using the Foley catheter ballooning technique. One patient is a 43-year-old man with left orbital inferior wall fracture. A window on the sinus was made for visualization, and a Foley catheter was accessed through the natural ostium. The ballooned catheter was inflated to lift the inferior orbital wall rim and stationed for 2 weeks. The window was closed using metal plates and screws. Another patient is a 64-year-old woman with right maxillary sinus anterior wall fracture, nasal fracture, and orbital blow-out fracture. A Foley catheter was accessed through the fractured maxillary sinus and reduced into place and fixed with absorbable plates screws. The technique of stabilization of reduced maxillofacial fractures using a Foley balloon catheter with restorable plates and titanium plates showed stable results. This technique is relatively easy to undergo with minimal or no complications because of reduced operation time. Also, it is cost-effective compared with other materials providing similar results and heightens patient satisfaction.