Optometry Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Optometry, including details on myopia, optometric practice, therapy.

Early ocular prosthesis insertion improves quality of life after enucleation.

Chin K, Margolin CB, Finger PT

The New York Eye Cancer Center, New York, New York 10021, USA.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate early insertion of ocular prostheses for aesthetic rehabilitation after enucleation and review current methods of enucleation surgery. METHODS: Twelve patients with large intraocular malignancies were treated by enucleation with implant. At the end of surgery, a medium-size conformer was inserted onto the closed conjunctival wound (just before applying a pressure dressing). The pressure dressing was removed 3 to 5 days after surgery. Immediately after bandage removal, the patients saw themselves in a mirror and were offered placement of a relatively small ocular prosthesis. Patients were asked if they preferred their aesthetic appearance with or without the prosthesis. RESULTS: Eight patients (67%) tolerated introduction of the prosthesis at the time of removal of their pressure dressing (3 to 5 days after enucleation surgery). Because of discomfort, 4 were able to receive their prostheses at their second postoperative visit (day 12 or 13). The manipulation at prosthesis insertion and subsequent wearing was found to have no effect on wound closure, final prosthetic fittings, or movement of the permanent prosthesis. All patients were pleased with the cosmetic benefit afforded by early introduction of the prosthesis and preferred their appearance to that of their eye with the conformer. CONCLUSIONS: Early replacement of the conformer by an ocular prosthesis allows for cosmetic rehabilitation and improved quality of life.

Published 14 February 2006 in Optometry, 77(2): 71-5.
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