A technique for fabrication of an interim ocular prosthesis

Several ocular and orbital disorders require surgical intervention that may result in ocular defects. Immediate intervention is required to preserve the anophthalmic socket size and prevent scar tissue contractures that may follow surgery. Unfortunately, immediate fitting of an anophthalmic socket with an artificial eye may not always be possible, and a delayed prosthesis delivery may result in settling and sinking of the prosthesis into the socket, therefore requiring orbital cavity conformation. This article presents a short review of the most commonly used techniques for processing an ocular prosthesis, while suggesting a practical transition to the application of some of them. A technique for fabricating a custom-made provisional ocular prosthesis using digital imaging technology is described. This technique may be considered in order to avoid costly procedures that might be required as a result of delayed artificial eye insertion. The technique described in this article provides a cost-effective choice for optimal orbital cavity conformation and serves as a diagnostic aid for predicting the patient's compliance to ocular prosthetic treatment. The esthetic advantages and the relative ease of fabrication of this interim prosthesis allow it to be considered a first step in the management of untreated anophthalmic sockets.