Magnetic systems for tarsorrhaphy. Academic Article uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • PURPOSE: Paralytic lagophthalmos can cause exposure keratopathy. Current treatments have difficulties: extrusion, migration, allergic reaction, anatomical disruption, and technically difficult surgeries. The goal of this study was to design, create, and assess a new method for eyelid closure using magnets. METHODS: This experimental study is approved by institutional review board. Creation of eyelid model and magnet systems: A model of the eyelid and eyeball was constructed to determine the necessary magnetic strength. Neodymium magnets were cast in silicone mold carriers. Assessment of temporary magnet systems in humans: 1) a magnet was affixed to the upper and lower eyelids, and 2) a magnet was affixed to the upper eyelid and another to eyeglasses. Parameters evaluated were eyelid positions and success of eyelid closure in healthy adult volunteers. RESULTS: Magnetic force required to create the average eyelid opening force was calculated from the eyelid model to be equivalent to 4 magnets. The magnet system affixed to upper and lower eyelids resulted in complete eyelid closure in 5 of 5 normal controls, while the magnet system affixed to the upper eyelid and to spectacles resulted in complete eyelid closure in 10 of 13 normal controls. CONCLUSIONS: Magnetic systems for eyelid closure were designed that used either magnets affixed to both upper and lower eyelids or an upper eyelid magnetic component combined with a magnetic element in the lower rim of spectacles. Both were effective in eyelid closure in a model eye and normal controls. These systems may ultimately provide a simplified, safer, and less invasive method to treat paralytic lagophthalmos.

publication date

  • January 1, 2014

Research

keywords

  • Eyelid Diseases
  • Magnetic Phenomena
  • Magnets
  • Models, Biological
  • Ophthalmology

Identity

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 84905911547

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1097/IOP.0000000000000097

PubMed ID

  • 24841731

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 30

issue

  • 4