Repair of the contracted socket using RTV silicone as a stent for mucosal grafting

The anophthalmic socket is often contracted due to a deficiency of conjunctiva. The use of buccal mucosa to expand the socket is well known to ophthalmologists. However, this material often suffers shrinkage due to excessive scarring following surgery, leading to further contracture of the socket. RTV silicone (Medical Elastomer 382) has been found to be an excellent stent following buccal mucosal grafting. This paper deals with technical aspects of performing this procedure and discusses the complications. The results in 17 of 21 sockets have been excellent in allowing the conjunctival graft to take without further shrinkage and in allowing the patient to wear a prosthetic eye comfortably.