Purpose:
To evaluate the efficacy of the modified Cutler-Beard procedure using autogenous ear cartilage for tarsal plate reconstruction in the repair of 70-100% upper eyelid defects, and to discuss cost and safety of using autogenous ear cartilage rather than alternatives for tarsal plate reconstruction.
Methods: This is a prospective, interventional case series of eight patients over a period of three years. All patients had malignant tumors of the upper lid requiring removal of at least 70% of the lid. All patients’ lid defects were repaired using a modified Cutler-Beard procedure, using autogenous auricular cartilage for stability of the lid that the tarsal plate normally imparts. Patient were followed over a period of six months to one year with postoperative ophthalmologic examinations and photos at each visit.
Results: Upper eyelid recreation was successful in all cases without complications. In other words, the autogenous auricular cartilage graft maintined excellent architecture and motility in all patients at follow-up visits, resulting in good cosmetic result and functionality.
Conclusions: This modified Cutler-Beard procedure using an autogenous auricular cartilage graft is an effective procedure for repair of large upper eyelid defects, with both good functional and cosmetic results. Moreover, it is particularly useful in resource-poor areas, due to lower cost than other available options. |