Application of Three-Dimensional Printing Technology in the Orbital Blowout Fracture Reconstruction

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical outcomes of orbital blowout fracture repair by using the three-dimensional (3D) printing-assisted fabrication of individual titanium mesh. Clinical and radiologic data were analyzed for 12 patients with orbital floor and/or medial wall fractures. Lower eyelid incision was used to expose the fractures. Preoperative computed tomographic data were input into an imaging software to rebuild a 3D orbit and mirror the unaffected side into the affected side to replace the demolished orbit. A resin model of the reshaped orbit was generated and used to develop an individual titanium mesh for repairing the fractured orbital. The surgical results were assessed by value of enophthalmos and a comparison of preoperative and postoperative orbital volume difference. All patients had a successful treatment outcome without any complications. Clinical significant enophthalmos were not observed after treatment, and diplopia were solved within 2 weeks postoperative. No extraocular muscle limitation was observed. Postoperative computed tomography scans demonstrated appropriate positioning of titanium mesh and there was no implant displacement. The postoperative orbital volume and enophthalmos difference between the 2 eyes decreased significantly than preoperative (P < 0.001). Three-dimensional printing-assisted fabrication of individual titanium mesh is appropriate for use in orbital blowout fracture.