Management of naso-orbito-ethmoidal fractures with modification of the conventional closed technique

Abstract

The management of naso-orbito-ethmoidal (NOE) fractures is often challenging due to the complex anatomy of the region. Trauma to the bones that make up the area often result in fractures which occur in a comminuted fashion and are usually compounded into the related sinuses. We report a case of a 25-year-old male iron bender who sustained NOE fractures and had reduction and immobilization using per cutaneous tubed stents supported by intra nasal endotracheal tubes (ETT) for both nostrils. The fixation acquired enough strength and stability which permitted removal of splints at the end of three weeks. Modification of the conventional closed reduction technique with the use of percutaneous tubed stents provides an acceptable pre-traumatic facial appearance including facial width, projection and height at a relatively low cost and technique sensitivity.