Restoration of the anophthalmic socket with secondary implantation of a coralline hydroxyapatite sphere.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Restoration of the anophthalmic socket to improve the aesthetic result on the face.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The authors describe variations in the technique of secondary orbital implantation in 10 patients using the scleral-wrapped hydroxyapatite (HA) sphere implant. Secondary implantation was performed in 4 patients without a previously inserted orbital implant, in 4 patients as an exchange procedure with a preexisting orbital implant, and in 2 patients with eviscerated eyes. Two of these patients proceeded with the drilling operation.

RESULTS

All 10 patients achieved a better facial appearance. There were no postoperative complications during the follow-up period of between 6 and 53 months.

CONCLUSION

Based on the authors' experience, secondary implantation of the HA sphere is a procedure of choice with no complications, but requires considerable skill and patience on the part of the surgeon.