A Simplified Method to Fabricate a Pneumatic Ocular Prosthesis for Large Ocular Defects

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Enucleation/exenteration creates large orbital sockets requiring large prostheses.
• Conventional solid ocular prostheses are heavy, causing lower eyelid distortion and malalignment.
• Existing prostheses can lead to poor cosmetic outcomes and patient discomfort.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a method for fabricating a pneumatic, lightweight, custom ocular prosthesis.
• To overcome the adverse effects of traditional solid orbital prostheses.
• To improve patient outcomes after orbital content removal.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the lost wax technique for prosthesis fabrication.
• Developed a custom-fit pneumatic ocular prosthesis.
• Focused on creating a lightweight, volume-enhancing device.

Main Results:

• The pneumatic prosthesis offers a lightweight alternative to solid acrylic devices.
• This method aims to prevent lower eyelid distortion and malalignment.
• Fabrication allows for a flush-fitting, custom ocular prosthesis.

Conclusions:

• A pneumatic ocular prosthesis fabricated using the lost wax technique is a viable solution.
• This approach mitigates the detrimental effects of heavy, conventional prostheses.
• Improved aesthetics and patient comfort are anticipated outcomes.