Deep ocular socket reconstruction
A. M. Putterman and R. Scott
A technique to reconstruct totally contracted sockets forms spacious, deep
ocular fornices to accommodate ocular prostheses. Fixation of the
midperiphery of mucous-membrane-lined, custommade conformers to the
superior and inferior orbital rims secures the posterior periphery of the
conformer deep in the orbit. The method restores the normal anatomy of the
ocular fornices that not only extends to the orbital rims but also
penetrates deeply into the orbit along its roof and floor. The procedure
contrasts with conventional, frequently unsuccessful methods of socket
reconstruction that form fornices only to the superior and inferior orbital
rims without extending posteriorly into the orbit. Using this technique, we
reconstructed deep, spacious sockets in five patients with serious socket
contracture, allowing the patients to retain cosmetically acceptable
artificial eyes. The principles advocated apply to all contracted sockets.
