The use of titanium mesh in the management of orbital trauma--a retrospective study.

This study examines the use of titanium mesh in the reconstruction of internal orbital defects. The goals of reconstruction when treating orbital fractures include restoration of internal wall continuity and provision of support to the orbital contents. In this way the untoward sequelae of post-traumatic enophthalmos and disturbance of visual acuity are avoided. Autogenous grafts have been the material of choice for most surgeons involved with treatment of these injuries. The major disadvantages of using autologous tissue are the need for a graft donor site, with attendant increases in operative time, prolonged hospitalization, increased postoperative discomfort and problems intrinsic to the donor site wound. The purpose of this report is to present the author's experience with the use of titanium alloplasts in the early repair of traumatic orbital wall fractures. Patients treated at the Townsville General Hospital from July 1, 1997-March 1, 2000 with injuries involving the orbit repaired with titanium mesh or micro-mesh were included in the study.