Name of the Procedure:

• Orbital Prosthesis (L8042)
• Commonly known as artificial eye or ocular prosthesis.

Summary

An orbital prosthesis is an artificial device provided to replace the eye structure for patients who have lost an eye due to injury, illness, or surgery. It is designed to fit in the eye socket and mimic the appearance of a natural eye, helping to restore both function and aesthetics.

Purpose

The main aim of an orbital prosthesis is to restore the normal appearance of the eye and surrounding structures after an eye has been removed. It also supports eyelid function and helps maintain the shape of the eye socket.

Indications

• Loss of an eye due to trauma, tumor, or severe infection.
• Congenital deformities resulting in absence or disfigurement of the eye.
• Patients who have undergone enucleation (removal of the eye) or evisceration (removal of eye contents).

Preparation

• No specific fasting or major medication adjustments are typically necessary.
• Initial consultation to assess the eye socket and discuss patient expectations.
• Possibly imaging studies or molds of the eye socket to ensure a custom fit.

Procedure Description

1. Consultation and Assessment: The specialist evaluates the eye socket, discusses the patient's needs, and takes measurements or molds.
2. Design and Fitting: A custom prosthesis is fabricated, mimicking the color and shape of the natural eye. Adjustments are made during fitting sessions to ensure comfort and optimal appearance.
3. Final Placement: The final prosthesis is placed in the eye socket, and instructions for care and handling are provided.

Tools and Equipment:

• Molds and impression material
• Custom ocular prosthetic materials

Anesthesia:

• Generally, no anesthesia is needed as the fitting sessions are non-invasive.

Duration

The fitting and adjustment process may require multiple sessions over several weeks.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic
• Specialized prosthetic or ocularist office

Personnel

• Certified ocularist or anaplastologist
• Occasional consultation with an ophthalmologist if medically indicated

Risks and Complications

• Irritation or discomfort in the eye socket
• Infections
• Incorrect fit leading to poor cosmetic results or functional issues
• Regular follow-up needed to address any adjustments due to changes in the socket over time

Benefits

• Improved appearance and self-esteem
• Maintenance of eyelid function and symmetrical appearance
• Immediate improvements in appearance once the final prosthesis is in place

Recovery

• Minimal downtime; patients can often resume normal activities immediately.
• Regular cleaning and maintenance of the prosthesis as instructed.
• Periodic follow-up visits to adjust or replace the prosthesis as needed.

Alternatives

• Evisceration or enucleation without a prosthetic (less ideal cosmetically and functionally).
• Custom-painted scleral shell prosthesis (an option for certain cases).
• Pros: Customization and improved aesthetics.
• Cons: Cost, need for regular fittings, and maintenance.

Patient Experience

Patients might experience an initial period of adjustment to the prosthesis. Some discomfort is common initially, but it generally subsides as they get used to the new device. Pain, if present, can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and proper adjustment of the prosthesis. Regular cleaning and maintenance help in ensuring long-term comfort and cosmetic satisfaction.