The MOEWAT as a proposed method of evaluating orbital exenteration wounds

Orbital exenteration is a disfiguring and life-changing surgical procedure that involves the removal of the socket contents, including the eye, surrounding adnexa and, in some cases, the eyelids, orbital bone and sinuses. Wound healing of exenterated sockets can be complex and may take several months to completely heal. In an attempt to provide a framework for continuity of care for patients who undergo orbital exenteration surgery, we propose a socket wound assessment tool, which will allow professionals to track changes in orbital exenteration wounds. The Manchester Orbital Exenteration Wound Assessment tool (MOEWAT) has been developed to facilitate assessment and evaluation of postoperative exenterated sockets at any given time. Consequently, as the first assessment instrument specifically developed for use in orbital exenterated patients, the MOEWAT could provide a basis for wound-care decision-making in relation to clinical findings.