Superior rectus/levator complex in acquired anophthalmic socket repaired with spheric implant—a computed tomography scan and topographic study

Abstract

AIM: To determine whether the levator palpebrae superioris (LPS)/superior rectus (SR) muscle complex, can influence the position of the upper lid and fornix in acquired anophthalmic sockets. METHODS: This comparative non-randomized and non-interventional study included retrospective data of 21 patients with unilateral acquired anophthalmic sockets repaired with spheric implants. High-resolution computed tomography (CT) measurements of the LPM/SR muscle complex and clinical topographic position of the upper lid, superior and inferior fornix depth in primary gaze position were evaluated. Demographic data were presented as frequency and percentage proportions and quantitative variables comparing the socket measurements with the normal contralateral orbit was statistically analyzed using non-parametric tests considering P<0.05. RESULTS: The anophthalmic orbits had a significantly shorter LPS length (P=0.01) and significantly thicker SR (P=0.02) than the normal orbit. Lagophthalmos was present in anophthalmic sockets but not in normal orbits (P=0.002), while levator function was normal in both (P>0.05, all comparisons). The superior fornix depth was similar in the anophthalmic socket and the contralateral normal orbit (P=0.192) as well the inferior fornix depth (P=0.351). CONCLUSION: Acquired anophthalmic sockets repaired with spheric implants have shorter LPS, thicker SR, and more lagophthalmos than normal orbits. The relationship of the LPS and SR with other orbital structures, associated with passive or active forces acting in the final position of the lids and external ocular prosthesis should be further investigated.