Transnasal Reduction of Blow Out Fracture with Transconjunctival Approach

Lee, Won; Kang, Dong Hee; Oh, Sang A; Lee, Sung Whan

Abstract

PURPOSE
Many surgical approaches for reconstruction of blow out fracture have been introduced, which include subciliary incision, transconjunctival incision and transcaruncular incision. Recently endoscopic approach has been attempted. This study was intended to show the effectiveness of the approach through transconjunctival incision combined with transnasal reduction in reconstructing blow out fracture to its original position.
METHODS
Medical recoreds of 43 patients from March 2008 to March 2009 who underwent surgery for orbital fracture were reviewed, retrospectively. All fractures were operated through transconjuctival incision approach combined with transnasal reduction. The average follow-up period was 10.1 months. To evaluate the surgical outcomes of orbital fracture, we performed CT of the facial bone before and after the surgery. In addition, preoperative and postoperative data of enophthalmos, diplopia and the limitation of extraocular motion was assessed with physical examination.
RESULTS
Post-operative CT scan of 43 patients assured that the bone fragments of the orbital fractures were restored to their original positions. Although a few patients developed postoperative transient diplopia or impairment of ocular movement, most of the patients recovered during the follow-up period without complication.
CONCLUSION
From this study, we were able to demonstrate the effectiveness of the transnsasal reduction technique combined with the approach through transconjunctival incision. This technique can be considered as very useful means of repairing orbital fracture. It is not only easy to perform but also it can minimize the damage to the orbital bone. Furthermore, it can restore the fracture to its original position as much as possible.