Orbit Reconstructive Surgery Using Computer-Generated Non-Porous 3-Dimensional Printed Implants

Authors: Iyar Sheps , Ezekiel Weis.  University of Calgary.

Author Disclosures: I. Sheps:  None.  E. Weis:  None.

Abstract Body:

Purpose:  To describe our experience with orbital reconstructive surgery using patient-specific computer-generated non-porous 3-dimensional printed implants in patients with various orbital defects.  

Study Design:  This study was a double-center consecutive case series.  

Methods:  All patients were examined with full clinical ophthalmic evaluation and orbits CT pre- and postoperatively. Demographic and other clinical data were collected and analyzed.  

Results:  Seven patients with orbital defects, who underwent reconstructive surgery using non-porous patient-specific implants, were enrolled. The average patient age was 46.18±24.59. Six patients were male. The post operative follow-up time ranged from 5 to 63 months. Orbital defects reconstructed with 3-D computer-generated printed implants included defects in the orbital floor, superolateral wall, inferomedial wall and bilateral lateral wall. The leading etiology for orbital deformity was previous tumor excision (optic nerve glioma, cementoblastoma, osteoma and squamous cell carcinoma). Two patients developed post-operative infection. One of these patients had to undergo removal of the implant.  

Conclusions:  Our study demonstrates high clinical efficacy in restoring the volume and shape of the deformed orbit, using computer-generated non-porous 3-D printed implants. Furthermore, it highlights the diverse uses of these implants in repairing various orbital defects, with satisfying aesthetic and functional results. However, when the implant communicates with the sinus, surgeons should be aware of risks for infections and steps to reduce the development of resistant infections.