LONG-TERM RESULTS AFTER PRETARSAL FIXATION OF GOLD WEIGHTS IN FACIAL NERVE PALSY

Authors

  • A. MIHAI “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi
  • V. PIEPTU “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi
  • Mihaela TIMOFTE “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi
  • D. PIEPTU “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi

Keywords:

FACIAL PALSY, CORNEAL EXPOSURE, GOLD WEIGHTS

Abstract

Chronic corneal exposure after facial palsy is a clinically condition requiring immediate treatment. The most effective and simple solution is the gold weight implant into the upper eyelid. Aim: to evaluate our long-term results using this method. Materials and methods: This is a retrospective study of the outcomes after pretarsal placement of gold weights in 20 patients operated by one surgeon from 2002 to 2020. Results: A total of 20 patients were included in the study. Follow up period ranged from 5 to 21 years. None of them have postoperative infections, ptosis, keratopathy, nor have they reduced visual acuity. Fifteen out of twenty patients have the implant in an adequate position, with appropriate lid closure. Two patients developed minimal implant migration and slight asymmetry, but implant remained functional and in place. Three patients developed important implant migration leading to extrusion. Conclusions: The results of our long-term study are similar to those revealed in the literature. Considering the favorable post-operative outcomes, we would recommend this technique for using either as a self-standing procedure or in conjunction with other static or dynamic procedures in facial palsy. For long term results and for improved migration and implant extrusion rates we recommend under correction by choosing to place the lighter implant instead of the “perfect”, heavier implant.

Author Biographies

  • V. PIEPTU, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi

    Regional Institute of Oncology Iasi
    Plastic Surgery Unit

  • Mihaela TIMOFTE, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi

    Regional Institute of Oncology Iasi
    Plastic Surgery Unit

  • D. PIEPTU, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi

    Regional Institute of Oncology Iasi
    Plastic Surgery Unit

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Additional Files

Published

2024-04-03