Assessment of flexible β-TCP plates in orbital floor fracture management: A prospective clinical and Radiographic study

The orbital floor represents a complex challenge in facial trauma, often requiring reconstruction using materials that provide a stable base and restore the correct orbital volume. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a novel flexible β-TCP plate in orbital floor reconstruction, focusing on anatomical restoration, functional outcomes, and safety profiles. A prospective clinical study of 10 patients (8 males, 2 females; aged 20–70 years) with orbital floor fractures was conducted. Treatment involved surgical reconstruction using β-TCP plates. Preoperative assessment included CT imaging and ophthalmologic evaluation (visual acuity, forced duction test). β-TCP plates were applied via a subciliary approach to reconstruct the orbital floor. Clinical and radiological evaluations were performed at 15 days, 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Anatomical outcomes showed complete enophthalmos resolution in 80% of cases (8/10), with minor residual enophthalmos in 30% (3/10). Functional recovery was excellent, with diplopia resolving in all cases (9/9) and unrestricted ocular motility achieved in 100% of patients. The procedure was safe, with no infections, implant migrations, or extrusions observed. Radiologic integration was confirmed by stable graft positioning on CT scans during follow-up. The flexible β-TCP plate demonstrates excellent efficacy in orbital floor reconstruction, with high rates of functional recovery and minimal complications. Its adaptability and biocompatibility support its use as a viable alternative to traditional materials. Larger studies with extended follow-up are warranted to validate long-term outcomes. • Innovative Implant : First clinical study on flexible β-TCP plates for orbital floor fractures, combining biocompatibility, adaptability, and controlled resorption. • Excellent Outcomes : a. 80% enophthalmos resolution , 100% diplopia correction , and full ocular motility restoration. b. No infections, migrations, or extrusions observed. • Surgical Benefits : a. Easy intraoperative shaping, no donor-site morbidity , and dual-layer design (silicone + β-TCP). b. Outperforms titanium (70–85% success) and autografts (75–90%). • Key Advantages : a. Optimal strength-flexibility balance (Young’s modulus: 3–4 GPa). b. Resorbs in 24 weeks , aligning with bone healing.