Atraumatic Release of Incarcerated Inferior Rectus Muscle in Trapdoor Fracture Can Lead to Better Functional Outcome

Abstract

Deciding the proper surgical approach for repairing blowout fractures with entrapped soft tissue are among one of the most challenging decisions for maxillofacial surgeons. This is due to multiple factors including the type and site of fracture, time elapsed from trauma. Tranconjunctival, subciliary, and/or transantral endoscopic has been described before. The authors report here a case of a young adult, presenting with diplopia, pain, and enophthalmos after being exposed to a blunt trauma on the left side. Computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed diagnosis of left orbital floor fracture with trapped inferior rectus in a trapdoor manner. Although presentation was later than 48 hours from trauma, yet incorporating, minimally traumatic dual, transconjunctival-transantral endoscopic approach the inferior rectus muscle was preserved and regained full range of movement, after <3 months postoperatively.