Processed fascia lata as an alternative implant material in evisceration.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To examine the use of processed fascia lata strips as an implant material in evisceration. METHODS: This is a prospective, interventional, noncomparative case series. Eight patients underwent standard evisceration of an eye with subsequent primary insertion of processed fascia lata strips in the scleral shell. They were clinically examined at regular postoperative intervals (up to 20 months) and had computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans of the orbits at the 12-month interval. The development of vascularity of the scleral shell contents was assessed with the intravenous administration of a contrast-enhancing agent. RESULTS: The fascia lata strips were incorporated without significant complications in all cases. The maintenance of adequate volume and position of the eviscerated globe was confirmed by both computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans. T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging studies with intravenous administration of contrast-enhancing agent and fat-saturation sequences revealed the development of vascularity of the scleral shell contents. CONCLUSIONS: Processed fascia lata may be a useful alternative implant material in evisceration. Possible advantages of its use may include protection against extrusion, custom volume selection and easy intraoperative manipulation.