Abstract
Purpose: :
To describe and demonstrate a novel technique for achieving a dilating pupil effect in a prosthetic eye.
Methods: :
Using this patented technology, comprised of a combination of polarizing film embedded in the ocular prosthesis and a polarizing spectacle lens, the pupil of the RealisticEye prosthesis appears to dilate when the spectacles are worn. When the spectacles are removed, the pupil of the prosthetic eye appears to constrict. Depending on the ambient lighting, the RealisticEye spectacles may be worn or not, so that the pupil of the prosthetic eye more nearly matches the size of the pupil in the seeing eye. By encouraging glasses wear, important individual and public health objectives are furthered, since wearing spectacles reduces the chance of accidental trauma to the remaining eye. Survey data from practicing ocularists and from their patients were collected, in order to determine level of interest and the viability of this product to meet patients’ needs.
Results: :
The prototype RealisticEye functions as decribed, resulting in improved cosmetic appearance. For monocular patients who desire a more natural-looking ocular prosthesis, this may be an attractive option. Based on survey results, ocularists and patients are interested in a simple, safe and convenient solution to make the artificial eye appear even more natural.
Conclusions: :
The RealisticEye offers a cosmetic advantage over conventional acrylic ocular prostheses, using a simple variation of current technique and spectacles which activate the dilating effect. Ocularists, who produce custom prostheses, and their monocular patients are interested in the technique.
Keywords: trauma • tumors • spectacle lens