Nasoethmoid orbital fractures. Current concepts and management principles.

The proper management of nasoethmoid orbital fractures relies upon early accurate diagnosis and treatment. A surgical plan must be established after careful review of the physical examination and CT scans. Identification of the extent and type of fracture pattern determines the operative approach. Extended (wide) exposure, using craniofacial techniques, facilitates precise reduction and rigid fixation of all bone fragments. Transnasal reduction of the canthus-bearing central segment (medial orbital rim) is the critical operative maneuver required to achieve normal intercanthal distance. Immediate bone grafting replaces severely comminuted or missing bone fragments. The skin overlying the nasoethmoid area is carefully redraped by gentle pressure from padded external compression bolsters. These principles form the basis for superior aesthetic and functional results.