Orbital Fractures

Orbital fractures rank as the second most common facial fractures (Ellis, Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am 24:629–648, 2012). They result from various traumatic mechanisms, such as direct impact with blunt objects on the eyeball or high-impact traffic accidents (Ellis et al., J Oral Maxillofac Surg 43:417–428, 1985). Primarily associated with zygomatic-maxillary complex fractures, orbital fractures involve numerous anatomical structures, directly affecting the outcome of orbital reconstruction. The precise reconstruction of these fractures poses a challenge for maxillofacial surgeons, requiring the restoration of volumetric anatomical integrity to properly position the eyeball and address cosmetic and functional challenges for the patient. Current technology greatly aids maxillofacial surgeons in planning and executing appropriate treatment plans for patients with such fractures. Orbital reconstruction has traditionally been accomplished utilizing different techniques developed for this purpose and has been modified and improved throughout the years. However, a high rate of complications associated with eye globe positioning and/or migration of implants has created the need to continue improving these techniques to decrease the frequency of complications. On the other hand, techniques that involve an endoscopic approach and technologies that use virtual surgical planning and three-dimensional model impressions are being used more often to decrease complication rates and seek better surgical outcomes.