Buccal Fat Advancement-Transposition Flap for Reconstruction of Midface Volume Defects.

Background: The buccal fat pad (BFP) has previously been utilized for repair of various defects of the head and neck. Objectives: We explore the utility of a pedicled buccal fat advancement-transposition (BFAT) flap in various forms of midface reconstruction through a variety of surgical approaches and characterize its volume and axial reach in human anatomic specimens. Methods: Ten adult full-head human anatomic specimens were dissected, and a single surgical case demonstrating the use of a BFAT flap is described. Results: Nasolabial, subciliary, and deep plane facelift incisions all provided access to the BFP for use as a BFAT flap. The mean volume of mobilizable fat contained within a BFAT flap accessible through external incision was 7.1 cm3. Once fully mobilized, the externalized BFAT flap had a mean axial reach of 6.9 cm without tension. We also present a case illustrating the successful use of a BFAT flap for volumization of a large midface defect secondary to Mohs micrographic surgical resection of a cutaneous malignancy. Discussion: The BFAT flap, which exhibited substantial volume and reach in this study, can be harvested through multiple dissection windows or pre-existing defects and be used to reconstruct a variety of midface defects.

Outcome Comparison of Transconjunctival Müller's Muscle Recession With Levator Disinsertion (TMRLD) to Gold Weight Implantation in the Treatment of Paralytic Lagophthalmos.

PURPOSE: To compare clinical outcomes of transconjunctival Müller's muscle recession with levator disinsertion (TMRLD) to the traditional gold weight implantation in patients with paralytic lagophthalmos. METHODS: A retrospective nonrandomized comparative review of patients who had gold weight implantation and TMRLD surgeries for paralytic lagophthalmos from January 2016 to January 2023 was performed. The main outcome comparisons were measurement changes in lagophthalmos, marginal reflex distance 1, visual acuity, and corneal examination. Complication and reoperation rates were also compared. RESULTS: Twenty-six cases of gold weight implantation and 20 cases of TMRLD surgeries were identified. The changes in logMAR visual acuity between gold weight implantation and TMRLD groups were not statistically significant (-0.10 ± 0.48 vs. +0.05 ± 0.14, p > 0.05). The percent improvement in lagophthalmos (62.2% ± 51.8% vs. 58.4% ± 21.1%) and final marginal reflex distance 1 (2.22 ± 1.42 vs. 2.25 ± 1.41 mm) were also comparable between groups ( p > 0.05). Both groups showed similar changes in marginal reflex distance 1 (1.75 ± 1.31 vs. 2.83 ± 1.37 mm) and lagophthalmos (3.77 ± 3.92 vs. 3.36 ± 1.36 mm) ( p > 0.05). The overall complication (15.4% vs. 15.0%) and reoperation rates (15.4% vs. 15.0%) were comparable over the follow-up duration (291.6 ± 437.3 vs. 121.0 ± 177.8 days) ( p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: TMRLD is as safe and effective as the gold weight implantation in addressing paralytic lagophthalmos in patients with facial nerve palsy.

Preseptal transconjunctival approach in orbital floor fracture repairs to prevent postoperative lower eyelid malposition.

PURPOSE: Lower eyelid malposition can be a complication following orbital floor fracture surgeries. We present our incidence of lower eyelid malposition from a large case series of orbital floor fracture repairs using the 'swinging eyelid' approach and 'hang back' technique. METHODS: A retrospective review of all orbital fracture surgeries at our institution from November 2011 to March 2021 was performed. Primary outcomes included the incidence of lower eyelid malposition by category, the average time to presentation after primary surgery, and reoperation rates among cases with lower eyelid complications. RESULTS: A total of 438 cases that involved repair of the fractured orbital floor were identified. Six patients (1.37 %) developed lower eyelid malposition following primary orbital floor repair. Two patients (0.46 %) developed reverse ptosis of the lower eyelid. Two patients (0.46 %) returned with lower lid cicatricial ectropion. One patient (0.23 %) had postoperative lower eyelid retraction. One patient (0.23 %) had postoperative lower eyelid cicatricial entropion. No cases of lower lid flattening, lower eyelid fat flattening, or eyelid notch was noted. All patients with lower eyelid malposition underwent additional surgeries except one patient with reverse ptosis (83.3 %). The average time to the presentation of postoperative complications from the surgery date was 292.8 days (range = 49 days to 3.5 years). CONCLUSION: Lower eyelid malposition after orbital floor repair is a known complication that can be decreased by employing the 'swinging eyelid' with a preseptal approach and closure by the 'hang back' technique.

Silicone Sphere Implant Extrusion From Orbital Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis: A Rare Complication in the Anophthalmic Socket.

Orbital implant extrusion is a known complication following evisceration and enucleation. In this case report, we present a 45-year-old woman who presented with a left silicone implant exposure and infection 2 years following evisceration with saddle nose on examination. CT of the maxillofacial bones without contrast showed bilateral soft tissue infiltration around the superior recti muscles, as well as a nasal septum perforation from extensive sinus disease. Left orbitotomy revealed a small fibrotic mass near the orbital roof. Biopsy and serology results were consistent with granulomatosis with polyangiitis.

Acute Bilateral Vision Loss Following Unilateral Optic Nerve Sheath Fenestration.

Optic nerve sheath fenestration (ONSF) is a surgical technique commonly and effectively employed in the treatment of recalcitrant, vision-threatening papilledema. Unilateral blindness, a known risk of unilateral ONSF widely cited with 1%-2% incidence. In this case, a 58-year-old patient who presented symptomatic with bilateral hemorrhagic papilledema unresponsive to medical therapy underwent uneventful unilateral ONSF via standard superomedial eyelid crease incision. The patient presented postoperatively with severe bilateral vision loss. Workup revealed widespread metastatic malignant disease involving the optic chiasm and optic nerve sheath.

Aerosol and droplet generation from orbital repair: Surgical risk in the pandemic era.

INTRODUCTION: The highly contagious COVID-19 has resulted in millions of deaths worldwide. Physicians performing orbital procedures may be at increased risk of occupational exposure to the virus due to exposure to secretions. The goal of this study is to measure the droplet and aerosol production during repair of the inferior orbital rim and trial a smoke-evacuating electrocautery handpiece as a mitigation device. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The inferior rim of 6 cadaveric orbits was approached transconjunctivally using either standard or smoke-evacuator electrocautery and plated using a high-speed drill. Following fluorescein inoculation, droplet generation was measured by counting under ultraviolet-A (UV-A) light against a blue background. Aerosol generation from 0.300-10.000 µm was measured using an optical particle sizer. Droplet and aerosol generation was compared against retraction of the orbital soft tissue as a negative control. RESULTS: No droplets were observed following the orbital approach using electrocautery. Visible droplets were observed after plating with a high-speed drill for 3 of 6 orbits. Total aerosol generation was significantly higher than negative control following the use of standard electrocautery. Use of smoke-evacuator electrocautery was associated with significantly lower aerosol generation in 2 of 3 size groups and in total. There was no significant increase in total aerosols associated with high-speed drilling. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Droplet generation for orbital repair was present only following plating with high-speed drill. Aerosol generation during standard electrocautery was significantly reduced using a smoke-evacuating electrocautery handpiece. Aerosols were not significantly increased by high-speed drilling.

Aerosol and droplet generation from mandible and midface fixation: Surgical risk in the pandemic era.

PURPOSE: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to concerns over transmission risk from healthcare procedures, especially when operating in the head and neck such as during surgical repair of facial fractures. This study aims to quantify aerosol and droplet generation from mandibular and midface open fixation and measure mitigation of airborne particles by a smoke evacuating electrocautery hand piece. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The soft tissue of the bilateral mandible and midface of two fresh frozen cadaveric specimens was infiltrated using a 0.1% fluorescein solution. Surgical fixation via oral vestibular approach was performed on each of these sites. Droplet splatter on the surgeon's chest, facemask, and up to 198.12 cm (6.5 ft) away from each surgical site was measured against a blue background under ultraviolet-A (UV-A) light. Aerosol generation was measured using an optical particle sizer. RESULTS: No visible droplet contamination was observed for any trials of mandible or midface fixation. Total aerosolized particle counts from 0.300-10.000 µm were increased compared to baseline following each use of standard electrocautery (n = 4, p < 0.001) but not with use of a suction evacuating electrocautery hand piece (n = 4, p = 0.103). Total particle counts were also increased during use of the powered drill (n = 8, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Risk from visible droplets during mandible and midface fixation is low. However, significant increases in aerosolized particles were measured after electrocautery use and during powered drilling. Aerosol dispersion is significantly decreased with the use of a smoke evacuating electrocautery hand piece.

Extra-ocular movement restriction and diplopia following orbital fracture repair.

PURPOSE: To report a series of patients with extra-ocular movement restriction and diplopia after orbital fracture repair, and determine the effect of timing of repair and the type of implant used. METHODS: A chart review was conducted identifying all patients >18years of age at our institution between June 2005 and June 2008 who underwent orbital fracture repair, and presented with clinically significant diplopia and extra-ocular movement restriction persisting longer than one month after repair. Data collected included timing of repair, implant used within the orbit, and need for revision. RESULTS: Ten patients were identified with a mean time to primary orbital fracture repair at 9days (range 1-48). Seven patients underwent revision of their orbital fracture repair with removal of the previously placed implant and replacement with non-porous 0.4mm Supramid Foil, whereas one patient underwent lateral and inferior rectus recessions without revision of primary fracture repair. Titanium mesh was the intra-orbital implant found in all patients requiring revision of orbital fracture repair. All revisions resulted in resolution of clinically significant diplopia. CONCLUSIONS: Clinically significant diplopia and extra-ocular movement restriction is not an uncommon complication after orbital fracture repair. In our series, there was a strong association between these complications and the use of porous titanium mesh implants. Revision of fractures significantly improved diplopia in all but one patient. This suggests that meticulous fracture repair and the use of non-porous implants primarily or secondarily may preclude the need for strabismus surgery after orbital trauma.

Corrigendum to "Ophthalmic considerations in patients with pfeiffer syndrome." [Am. J. Ophthalmol. Case Reports (2) 2016 1-3].

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1016/j.ajoc.2016.04.001.].

Surgical approach to limiting skin contracture following protractor myectomy for essential blepharospasm.

PURPOSE: To report our experience with protractor myectomy in patients with benign essential blepharospasm who did not respond to serial botulinum toxin injection, and to describe intra- and postoperative techniques that limited skin contracture while also providing excellent functional and cosmetic results. METHODS: The medical records of patients with isolated, benign, essential blepharospasm who underwent protractor myectomy from 2005 to 2008 by a single surgeon were reviewed retrospectively. The technique entailed operating on a single eyelid during each procedure, using a complete en bloc resection of all orbicularis tissue, leaving all eyelid skin intact at the time of surgery, and placing the lid under stretch with Frost suture and applying a pressure dressing for 5-7 days. RESULTS: Data from 28 eyelids in 7 patients were included. Average follow-up was 21.5 months (range, 4-76 months). Of the 28 eyelids, 20 (71.4%) showed postoperative resolution of spasm, with no further need for botulinum toxin injections. In the 8 eyelids requiring further injections, the average time to injection after surgery was 194 days (range, 78-323 days), and the average number of injections was 12 (range, 2-23 injections). All but one eyelid had excellent cosmetic results, without signs of contracture; one eyelid developed postoperative skin contracture following premature removal of the Frost suture and pressure dressing because of concerns over increased intraocular pressure. CONCLUSIONS: In our patient cohort, this modified technique resulted in excellent cosmetic and functional results and limited postoperative skin contracture.

Nodular Fasciitis of the Orbit.

A 13-month-old boy was presented with new onset proptosis of the right eye. CT scan and MRI showed an enhancing mass in the right superior orbit with local bone remodeling and erosion. A craniotomy was performed for biopsy and sub-total resection. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry confirmed the lesion to be nodular fasciitis. Nodular fasciitis lesions are classically found in the anterior ocular adnexa, especially in pediatric patients. This is the first reported case of nodular fasciitis arising in the posterior orbit of a child younger than 16.

A Case of Orbital Histoplasmosis.

Histoplasma capsulatum var capsulatum is a dimorphic fungus endemic to the Ohio and Mississippi River Valleys of the United States. In this case report, a 33-year-old woman who presented with a right orbital mass causing progressive vision loss, diplopia, and facial swelling is described. Lateral orbitotomy with lateral orbital wall bone flap was performed for excisional biopsy of the lesion. The 1.5 × 1.8 × 2.3 cm cicatricial mass demonstrated a granulomatous lesion with necrosis and positive staining consistent with Histoplasma capsulatum var capsulatum infection. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case of orbital histoplasmosis to be reported in the United States and the first case worldwide of orbital histoplasmosis due to Histoplasma capsulatum var capsulatum.

Ophthalmic considerations in patients with Pfeiffer syndrome.

PURPOSE: We report here a newborn male infant with striking features consistent with severe Pfeiffer syndrome type II, including cloverleaf skull deformity with pansynostosis, extreme proptosis, upper extremity contractures, broad big toes and thumbs with varus deviation and genetic mutation in the FGFR2 gene. The authors review the ophthalmic complications in Pfeiffer syndrome and discuss the unique surgical strategies used for obtaining adequate corneal coverage in these unique patients. OBSERVATIONS: Ophthalmic considerations in Type 2 Pfeiffer Syndrome include vision loss secondary to increased intracranial pressure, and extreme proptosis as a result of orbitostenosis and midfacial retrusion. Our patient has undergone multiple ophthalmic/oculoplastic, neurosurgical, and midfacial surgeries as a result of corneal deterioration due to extreme exorbitism. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPORTANCE: It is important for ophthalmologists to be aware of the ophthalmic complications associated with patients with craniosynostosis syndromes. Our case identifies the importance of close communication between ophthalmology and plastic reconstructive surgery to help formulate the most successful plan in treating corneal decompensation and proptosis in Pfeiffer Syndrome patients.

Posterior conjunctival plication to correct secondary ptosis after eyelid retraction repair in Graves disease.

PURPOSE: To describe the results of posterior conjunctival plication for the treatment of secondary eyelid ptosis after eyelid retraction repair in Graves disease. METHODS: Case series. All patients were evaluated preoperatively by routine eye examination and eyelid measurements including Margin Reflex Distance 1 and levator function. Two eyes of 2 patients who presented with ptosis following eyelid retraction repair were corrected with posterior conjunctival plication. RESULTS: Posterior conjunctival plication for secondary ptosis following eyelid retraction repair was successful in 2 eyelids of 2 patients with Graves disease. Follow up period ranged from 6-10 months over which no sign of recurrent ptosis was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Posterior conjunctival plication is an effective surgical technique for the correction of secondary ptosis following eyelid retraction repair in patients with Graves disease.

Use of fracture size and soft tissue herniation on computed tomography to predict diplopia in isolated orbital floor fractures.

PURPOSE: To determine the role of fracture size and soft tissue herniation as measured by computed tomography in predicting the development of persistent diplopia in patients with isolated orbital floor fractures. METHODS: A retrospective chart review identified patients presenting between March 2009 and 2012 with isolated orbital floor fractures. Computed tomographic scans were assessed for transverse fracture size and absence or presence of soft tissue herniation and rectus involvement. Presence of diplopia at 6-10 days, decision for surgical repair, and presence of diplopia were recorded. RESULTS: Fifty-six patients fulfilled inclusion criteria. Eighteen of 56 patients (32%) had preoperative diplopia. In Type A fractures, 0/9 (0%) small, 1/8 (12.5%) medium, and 2/14 (14%) large fractures had diplopia. For Type B fractures, 3/4 (75%) small, 9/13 (69%) medium, and 4/8 (50%) large fractures had diplopia. Type B fractures were significantly more likely to cause diplopia than Type A fractures in the small (p = 0.003) and medium (p = 0.007) size groups but not in the large groups (p = 0.07). CONCLUSION: Transverse fracture size and presence of soft tissue herniation on CT imaging can predict development of persistent diplopia in isolated orbital floor fractures. Small and medium sized fractures with soft tissue herniation are more likely to cause diplopia than large sized fractures. We recommend early repair or closer observation of small and medium sized orbital floor fractures with soft tissue herniation due to the high risk of diplopia.

The assessment of orbital apical temperature change with local cool compress application.

PURPOSE: To examine the change in orbital apical temperature over time, with a local ice/water admixture compress placed over the eyelid. METHODS: A six-month-old, 220-pound Landrace/Hampshire/Duroc mixed breed pig was intubated and maintained under anesthesia with a steady average body temperature. An incision in the lateral third of the right lower eyelid along the inferior orbital rim was made, and a digital thermometer was inserted and guided toward the orbital apex by fluoroscopic imaging of the orbit. After the baseline apical temperature was measured, an ice/water admixture compress was placed on the right eyelid, and serial temperatures were taken every 5 minutes for 20 minutes. A final measurement was taken at 45 minutes after the ice/water admixture compress placement. RESULTS: At an average core body temperature of 38.9°C, the baseline apical temperature was 37.2°C. After placement of a 0°C ice/water admixture, there was an exponential decrease in apical temperature, reaching a plateau after a period of 20 minutes, with a decrease of 1.4°C from baseline. The same apical temperature noted 20 minutes after placement of the cool compress was measured 45 minutes after ice/water compress placement. CONCLUSIONS: There was only a limited decrease in apical temperature by placing a local 0°C ice/water admixture over the eyelid. This information is useful in determining whether local hypothermia may be a potential alternative for traumatic optic neuropathy.

Orbital manifestations of Noonan syndrome.

Noonan syndrome describes a rare multisystem condition that manifests with Turner syndrome phenotype combined with numerous systemic and facial characteristics. The most common systemic findings include cardiac defects, short stature, chest deformity, hearing loss, and bleeding diatheses. Patients with Noonan syndrome are also at a greater risk of developing various types of malignancies. Facial characteristics of Noonan syndrome consist of broad forehead, low-set ears, short and webbed neck, and low hairline. External ocular findings include hypertelorism, ptosis, epicanthal folds, antimongoloid slant, downward-sloping palpebral fissures, and malar flattening. In this case series and review of the literature, the authors present 2 cases of Noonan syndrome that embody the diverse spectrum of orbital manifestations associated with this rare disorder. The first case demonstrates more profound orbital pathology, including bilateral orbital giant cell reparative granulomas, proptosis, hypertelorism, shallow orbits, upper eyelid ptosis, and lower eyelid retraction. The second case displays classic Turner-syndrome-like facial characteristics including a broad forehead with low hairline, low-set ears, and short and webbed neck. Orbital findings were subtle and consisted of bilateral lower eyelid retraction and shallow orbits. In conclusion, Noonan syndrome is a rare congenital disorder with a wide spectrum of clinical findings. Various intraorbital and extraorbital tumors may occur in patients with Noonan syndrome, with giant cell reparative granuloma being the most commonly encountered. In patients with orbital tumors and eyelid retraction, the authors describe successful treatment through decompression, tumor extraction, and lower eyelid retractor release. Patients who present with ocular irritation and exposure due to less severe lower eyelid malposition may be successfully treated with lower eyelid retraction repair combined with lateral internal tarsoconjunctival tarsorrhaphy.

Modified frontalis suspension technique with review of large series.

PURPOSE: To describe and report results of a modified frontalis suspension technique utilizing direct fixation to tarsus, lash margin rotation, eyelid crease fixation, conservative blepharoplasty, and rhomboidal configuration. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of frontalis suspension patients over a 28-year period was performed. RESULTS: Data from 171 eyelids in 93 patients were reviewed. Ages ranged from 1 to 84 years with a median age of 16. The indications for surgery included the following: congenital ptosis in 107 eyelids (62.6%), chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia in 17 (9.9%), jaw winking ptosis in 14 (8.2%), blepharophimosis in 12 (7.0%), cranial nerve III palsy in 10 (5.8%), traumatic ptosis in 9 (5.3%), and myasthenia in 2 (1.2%). Autogenous fascia lata was utilized in 156 lids (91.3%), while silicone rods or banked fascia was used in 11 (6.4%) and 4 (2.3%) lids, respectively.Average follow up was 11.7 months (range 2 to 108 months). An excellent result was defined as ≤1 mm asymmetry in primary gaze and an eyelid position of 2.5 mm or less below the superior limbus. Eighty-nine of 93 patients (95.7%) achieved excellent results. Six lids in 4 patients (3.5%) were undercorrected. No patients were overcorrected. Only 2 patients with autogenous fascia lata (3.4%) required a secondary bilateral frontalis suspension at the 2- and 3-year time intervals. CONCLUSIONS: The authors believe that technique modifications including direct eyelid crease incision and tarsal fixation, conservative fat removal blepharoplasty even in children, lash margin rotation, and rhomboidal configuration with single midline brow incision give improved results of frontalis suspension when compared with conventional techniques.

Pigmented epithelioid melanocytoid tumor of the ocular adnexa.

An 8-year-old girl with a history of microphthalmia in the right eye presented with a left medial upper eyelid mass with a dark blue-green nodule that could be seen through the skin but did not appear to involve the overlying epidermis. A biopsy demonstrated a pigmented epithelioid melanocytoid tumor with rare mitoses arising in association with a congenital nevus and positive margins. Due to the pathological findings, the patient underwent excision of the tumor with 5-mm margins and a sentinel lymph node biopsy. The re-excision of the upper eyelid margins demonstrated residual benign congenital melanocytic nevus, but did not reveal residual melanocytic lesion. The parotid sentinel node biopsy revealed benign and cytologically mature nevus nests in the capsule and septa, but there was no evidence of involvement with the pigmented epithelioid melanocytoid tumor. The patient underwent successful eyelid reconstruction and had no evidence of recurrence or metastasis after 2 years.