Prosthetic Eye (Ocular Prosthesis): Surgery, Care, Types

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Ocular prostheses, commonly known as prosthetic eyes, are artificial devices designed to replace an absent natural eye. They serve not only cosmetic purposes but also help in maintaining the structure of the eye socket and surrounding tissues. This article explores the surgical procedures involved in fitting a prosthetic eye, the types available, and the care required to maintain them.

Surgery

The surgical process for fitting an ocular prosthesis typically involves either evisceration or enucleation, followed by the implantation of a prosthetic device. Recent advancements include the use of hydroxyapatite implants, which have shown promising results in terms of user-friendliness and reduced complications7. A novel approach, non-optic nerve transecting evisceration combined with hydroxyapatite orbital implantation, has been reported to offer less impairment and quicker postoperative recovery compared to traditional methods8. Additionally, the use of mitomycin C in contracted socket repair surgeries has been found to significantly improve the retention of the prosthetic eye5.

Types of Ocular Prostheses

Ocular prostheses can be fabricated using various materials and methods. Traditional methods involve manual crafting, while modern techniques include the use of 3D printing technology, which has been shown to enhance patient satisfaction in terms of aesthetics, comfort, and motility6. Hydroxyapatite implants are another type, known for their biocompatibility and ability to integrate with the surrounding tissues7.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance of an ocular prosthesis are crucial to prevent complications such as irritation, inflammation, and microbial infections. Studies have shown that repolishing the prosthesis can reduce microbial load and inflammatory signs over time1. Enhancing the surface finish of the prosthesis to an optical quality polish can also improve wear tolerance and reduce symptoms like discharge2. Regular hygiene protocols, whether daily or weekly, have been found to improve tissue health and reduce socket inflammation and discharge9. The use of therapeutic eyelid hygiene products has also been recommended for long-term rehabilitation, showing high efficiency in maintaining the health of the anophthalmic socket3.

Conclusion

Ocular prostheses play a vital role in the rehabilitation of individuals who have lost an eye. Advances in surgical techniques and materials have significantly improved the outcomes and satisfaction of prosthesis users. Proper care and maintenance, including regular cleaning and polishing, are essential to ensure the longevity and comfort of the prosthetic eye. As technology continues to evolve, further improvements in the design and functionality of ocular prostheses are anticipated, enhancing the quality of life for users.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

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