COMPLICATIONS OF HYDROXYAPATITE ORBITAL IMPLANTS - A REVIEW OF 100 CONSECUTIVE CASES AND A COMPARISON OF DEXON MESH (POLYGLYCOLIC ACID) WITH SCLERAL WRAPPING

Purpose: The authors analyzed all the complications associated with th e first 100 hydroxyapatite orbital implants performed by one surgeon, and compare scleral wrapping versus Dexon mesh (polyglycolic acid, Dav is & Geck, Manati, Puerto Rico) wrapping in light of these complicatio ns. Background: Prior studies have not included the full range of comp lications that can occur with hydroxyapatite orbital implants. Dexon m esh implant wrapping is a promising substitute for sclera and avoids t he risks involved in using donor tissue. Methods: A retrospective anal ysis of 100 consecutive cases was performed. Results: Many minor compl ications occurred, but the rate of exposure was low (3%) and no implan t was lost. Dexon mesh wrapping was similar to scleral wrapping with r espect to complications, although more posterior implant placement was necessary to avoid exposure in the Dexon-wrapped group. Conclusions: Surgeons and patients must be prepared for many minor complications wh en using hydroxyapatite orbital implants, but these can be readily ove rcome. Dexon mesh wrapping of the implant is recommended to avoid usin g donor tissue.