While topical prostaglandin analogs are well-tolerated by many patients with glaucoma, some individuals using these medications develop structural changes of the orbital soft tissue resulting in a variety of cosmetic and functional eyelid disorders. The eyelid margins can thin, causing posterior migration of the lashes. Increased horizontal tension of the eyelids may result in acquired blepharophimosis and upper or lower eyelid malposition. These orbital changes may be partially reversible in some patients. When possible, it is reasonable to withhold the prostaglandin and allow a period of observation before proceeding with surgical correction.
Forty percent of patients undergoing oculoplastic procedures were using anticoagulants; yet, many patients failed to disclose their medication usage. The decision to operate and whether to discontinue these medications must be individualized considering the nature of the procedure and the patient's medical condition. It may be appropriate to continue anticoagulants in certain patients at increased risk for a vascular event, ensuring adequate hemostasis throughout the procedure.
Retinal sensitivity to electrical stimulation was preserved in animals treated with chronic intravitreous infusion of CNTF. These data suggest that CNTF-mediated retinal neuroprotection may be a novel therapy that can lower stimulus thresholds in patients about to undergo retinal prosthesis implantation. Furthermore, it may maintain the long-term efficacy of these devices in patients.
Upper eyelid myectomy is an effective treatment modality for BEB in those patients who are refractory to botulinum toxin injections. Myectomy for BEB decreases the morbidity, botulinum toxin treatment frequency, and long-term expense associated with this disabling condition.
Medical radiation exposure can be reduced by initially ordering the appropriate scan and substituting MRI for CT when possible. MRI is contraindicated in patients with certain implants and metallic foreign bodies. Noncontrast studies are adequate to evaluate many conditions and some patients should not receive contrast. Imaging errors can be reduced by the ophthalmologist personally reviewing the orbital scans and correlating the results with the clinical findings.
These findings suggest that eyelid tissue thins and tightens over time, following daily administration of 0.03% bimatoprost in the NZW rabbit. These findings are similar to what has been observed in human patients.
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