The Use of Autologous Dermis Grafts for the Reconstruction of the Anophthalmic Socket

Abstract

Purpose: The main objectives of enucleation, evisceration or secondary orbital implants are to replace orbital volume and obtain good motility and adaptation of the implant and the external prosthesis. We describe our experience using autologous dermis graft sutured to Tenon and conjunctiva following evisceration, enucleation and any reconstruction requiring either a primary or secondary orbital implant, even those with large tissue loss.Materials and methods: A retrospective case series of patients who received an autologous dermis graft to assist in closure of a Tenon’s capsule and conjunctiva at the time of placement of secondary orbital implants or evisceration or enucleation with fornices retraction or tension in tissues. We also describe how and from where to take the dermis graft.Results: 72 patients were included and all received orbital porous polyethylene implants: 28 patients had secondary orbital implants, 36 patients had evisceration and 8 patients had enucleation. Implant size was 20 mm in most cases, but went to 22 mm. Follow-up ranged from 3 to 36 months. No intraoperative complications were observed in donor or receptor area. 8 cases had incipient ischemia of the dermis graft, but were treated and resolved with autologous serum.Conclusions: Implant exposure is due to bad surgical technique, an inadequate implant size or excessive tension on the suture. Dermis autologous graft allows moving the orbital implant anteriorly because it replaces surface to suture Tenon and conjunctiva without tension, so a good adaptation of a thinner external prosthesis is possible, resulting in better motility.