Repair of exposed porous polyethylene implants utilizing flaps from the implant capsule.

PURPOSE

To determine the feasibility of the use of flaps from the capsule surrounding porous polyethylene implants in repairing large or recurrent implant exposures.

DESIGN

Retrospective, noncomparative, interventional case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixteen patients with exposed porous polyethylene implants.

METHODS

Vertical and horizontal flaps were created from the implant capsule. These flaps were used to create a double layer of closure to seal the exposure. All patients had a minimum follow-up of at least 12 months.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Repair of the exposure without recurrence during the follow-up interval, and assessment of complications.

RESULTS

At the last follow-up visit, the socket was completely healed in all but 2 patients. In 1 of them, the implant was subsequently exchanged. Other complications included motility loss, conjunctival cyst, and granuloma formation.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of the implant capsule to salvage exposed porous polyethylene implants is an effective technique; it is associated with some complications that can be minimized by careful case selection.