Evaluating Auricular Conchal Cartilage Grafts in the Surgical Management of Pediatric Orbital Floor Fractures.

Abstract

Pediatric orbital floor fractures present unique challenges due to ongoing craniofacial growth and the need for reconstructive materials that provide stability while minimizing long-term complications. This retrospective study evaluates the outcomes of auricular conchal cartilage grafts in the surgical management of pediatric blowout fractures. Pediatric patients aged 7 to 16 years who underwent orbital floor reconstruction with conchal cartilage grafts between October 2013 and September 2023 were analyzed. Clinical data, computed tomography findings, surgical details, and postoperative outcomes were reviewed. Among 31 patients diagnosed with blowout fractures, 8 underwent surgical repair using conchal cartilage grafts. The mean age of surgically treated patients was 11.8 years, with an approximate orbital defect size of 2.8 cm². The mean follow-up period was 25 months. No postoperative infections or donor site deformities were observed. In long-term follow-up, 1 patient exhibited both diplopia on inferolateral gaze and enophthalmos. The use of auricular conchal cartilage provided a structurally compatible, low-morbidity alternative to traditional graft materials. Its inherent concave shape and ease of harvest make it a viable option for pediatric orbital floor reconstruction. The findings of this study support the use of conchal cartilage as a reliable autologous graft for orbital floor repair in pediatric patients; however, further studies with larger patient cohorts and comparative analyses are required to better define its long-term outcomes and optimal indications.