Validity and accuracy of subciliary endoscopic-aided repair of orbital floor fractures

Several approaches are used to reconstruct orbital floor fractures and restore orbital position and function, but many have the drawback of incomplete visualization, especially of the posterior part of the orbit. The aim is to assess the validity and accuracy of endoscopically aided subciliary approach repair of orbital floor fractures, as regards functional and cosmetic outcomes. Nine patients with orbital floor fractures were treated with iliac crest bone graft under complete endoscopically aided visualization, through a subciliary approach graft that was placed over the defect under complete visual control using endoscopes, through the same incision, to reconstruct the defect and assess the correction of the posterior edge of orbital floor defect. Improvement was assessed 2 weeks postoperatively. All operated cases had satisfactory results, both functionally and cosmetically. No permanent drawbacks from the incision were observed at 6 months follow-up. In case of repair of orbital floor fractures via a transciliary approach, the use of endoscopic aid through the same incision, allows better visualization of the posterior edge of the orbital floor and facilitates confirmation that all orbital soft tissues have been accurately elevated from the fracture site and that the bone grafts are placed in proper position. Level of evidence: 1b (individual inception study with >80% F/U).