The Compatibility of Varied Rib Cartilage Shapes with the Inferior Rim of the Orbit: A Gross Anatomical Study

Abstract

Recently, reports have documented the reconstruction of the infraorbital rim with costal cartilage grafts. In order to determine the costal cartilage with the shape that is most compatible to that of the infraorbital rim, a geometric morphometric analysis was performed. Cadaveric costal cartilages 5–7 and infraorbital rims were skeletonized and photographed. Photographs were utilized to perform shape analysis. The report highlights the pros and cons of utilizing costal cartilage from each level and side of the body. This information will help improve pre‐operative decision making in the reconstruction of the infraorbital rim. Support or Funding Information WVU INTRO (Initiation to Research Opportunities) Summer Research program; WV Research Challenge Fund [HEPC.dsr.17.06]