Comparison of transconjunctival versus subciliary approaches for orbital fractures: a review of 60 cases.

The increasing emphasis on open reduction in the management of orbital fractures has led to an extensive debate as to which approach provides adequate exposure for these fractures. This retrospective study compares the exposure provided and the rate of complications between transconjunctival and subciliary incisions for orbital rim and floor fractures. The charts of 55 patients with orbital fractures, treated with open reduction and internal fixation, were reviewed. A total of 30 subciliary and 30 transconjunctival incisions had been performed, and the adequacy of exposure as well as intraoperative and postoperative complication rates were compared. The authors found a higher rate of complications with the subciliary approach and, therefore, advocate the use of a transconjunctival incision for the management of orbital fractures.