Orbital anatomy for rehabilitation: the ocularist's point of view

In the post enucleation and evisceration patient, we must continually seek to resolve the functional and cosmetic defects that occur following surgery. Fitting a prosthesis that appears to be symmetrical with the fellow eye is the measuring stick of our success. The success or failure in achieving this cosmetic symmetry will determine to a great degree the rehabilitation of the patient. It is important for the ocularist to have at least a basic understanding of the anatomic changes that have resulted in the anophthalmic socket to correctly assess and treat these changes. The authors suggest a method detailing the steps involved in making an accurate clinical assessment of the patient. The authors will also outline the defects normally associated with post enucleation syndrome, their usual causative effects, and provide a suggested reading list supplying information on both surgical and prosthetic correction for each of these areas.