[Bioceramic and polymeric bioactive composite implants in orbit zygomatic complex reconstruction: a new prospect for biomaterials].

PURPOSE To evaluate through clinical and tomographic parameters implant behavior in orbital zygomatic reconstruction in six patients. METHODS The subjects for this preliminary study consisted of six anophthalmic socket patients (3 patients presented residual orbital zygomatic deformities after complex facial fractures and 3 patients presented orbital zygomatic retraction after enucleation and radiotherapy to treat retinoblastoma in infancy). These deformities were surgically corrected with this composite implant. This study was approved and authorized by the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais Ethical Committee for Research in Human Subjects (ETIC 203/04). Clinical data and tomographic images were utilized to assess the outcome of this study. RESULTS There were no complications and tomographic findings revealed no implant reactions or migration and a good maintenance of soft tissue projection in the operated areas was achieved. Success of outcome in this preliminary study were encouraging. CONCLUSION This study will be continued enrolling a larger sample and longer follow-up. Composite biomaterials have presented a good outcome in facial reconstructive surgery. The composite implants in this group have a good biocompatibility and combined with national technology can reduce costs providing more possibilities to many more patients.