Utilizing 3D-Printed Orbital Floor Stamps to Create Patient-Specific Implants for Orbital Floor Reconstruction

Abstract

Purpose: 

This study seeks to test a novel technique of custom-printed midface contour models with orbital floor “stamps” to guide reconstruction of orbital floor blowout fractures, with or without concomitant zygomaticomaxillary complex injury.

Methods: 

A series of 4 consecutive patients with orbital floor blowout fractures (including 3 with zygomatic maxillary complex fractures) were retrospectively examined for outcomes associated with orbital floor reconstruction using 3-dimensional–printed stamps and midface models. Data collected included demographics, pre- and postoperative visual globe malposition, motility, and visual field disturbances. Three-dimensional printing methodology is reported, as well as associated costs and time required to generate the models and stamps.

Results: 

The cost of producing a midface-contour model and orbital floor stamps was $131, inclusive of labor and materials. Cases averaged 170 minutes to segment, design, and print. Patients with preoperative diplopia and motility restrictions had resolution of their symptoms. Two patients had resolution of their enophthalmos, while one patient with a concomitant zygomaticomaxillary fracture had persistent mild enophthalmos.

Conclusions: 

Midface contour models and orbital floor stamps may be produced in a timely and cost-effective manner. Use of these “homemade” stamps allows for patient-specific custom-contoured orbital floor reconstruction. Further studies are warranted to examine long-term visual and esthetic outcomes for these patients.

In Brief

Three-dimensional–printed orbital floor stamps are a relatively novel surgical tool to create customized implants in orbital floor reconstructions.