Use of an Ultrasonic Bone Curette (Sonopet) in Orbital and Oculoplastic Surgery

Abstract

The use of the Sonopet Omni, an ultrasonic bone curette, has been discussed for ear, nose, and throat, neurosurgical, and maxillofacial procedures. Its use in oculoplastic and orbital surgery has not been extensively described. The Sonopet has a number of advantages that impart particular utility when operating in the orbit. We present three illustrative cases highlighting the unique advantages of the Sonopet: 1) the ability to spare critical soft tissues; 2) the facility to sculpt and restore the complex contour of the orbit; 3) the capability to biopsy infiltrative lesions that may not be as amenable to manipulation with conventional drills; and 4) a small footprint ideal for small operative fields such as the orbit.