Ipsilateral transnasal medial canthopexy to correct secondary telecanthus after naso-orbito-ethmoid fracture.

BACKGROUND

Telecanthus results from medial canthal tendon (MCT) disruption, which can result from traumatic naso-orbito-ethmoid (NOE) fractures. Several methods, using different anchoring materials, incision approaches, or fixation positions, have been proposed for MCT reconstruction. Herein, we report our experience in treating MCT disruption using ipsilateral transnasal medial canthopexy with a Y-V approach.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Between 2008 and 2017, seven patients with traumatic NOE fractures underwent ipsilateral transnasal MCT fixation with Y-V epicanthoplasty. The length ratio, defined as the length of the affected side divided by that of the normal side, was calculated preoperatively and postoperatively. A modified Y-V epicanthoplasty incision was made, after first marking the site in the apex of the caruncular fornix. The nasal wall was exposed and the MCT was accessed carefully. Bulky MCT tissue was trimmed. The lacrimal bone was ground using a bur, creating a concave shape to reposition the MCT, and two holes were drilled into the ipsilateral lacrimal fossa and frontomaxillary process. The MCT was fixed to the frontomaxillary process using no. 2 transnasal wire, which was secured by a 6-mm screw. Finally, the Y-V epicanthoplasty was repaired using 5.0 nylon.

RESULTS

The preoperative length ratio (mean±standard deviation: 83.3%±6.0%; range: 73.7%-92.0%) was significantly lower than the postoperative length ratio (mean±standard deviation: 99.4%±0.6%; range: 98.5%-100%) (p<0.05). No major complications were observed, with an average of 13 months of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Ipsilateral transnasal wiring fixation with Y-V epicanthoplasty is a useful and adequate method for MCT reconstruction after NOE fractures, without remarkable complications.