Oculoplastic Clinical Services
University of Ottawa Eye Institute at the General Campus of the Ottawa Hospital
Ophthalmic surgeons at the Eye Institute were the first in Canada to perfect the latest standard in replacement procedures following the loss of an eye. By exchanging traditional plastic balls for implants fashioned from sea coral (Hydroxyapatite Orbital Implants), they created a much more realistic-appearing alternative. Recently, they developed a means of producing a synthetic coral that is easier to work with, less expensive and eliminates the danger of disrupting marine ecosystems.
Because the coral is porous, connective tissue in the eye socket binds to the implant over time. Eventually, the implant acts in concert with movement of the good eye. The coral implant also readily accepts a prosthetic shell on which an eyeball closely resembling the patient's good eye has been hand painted. To date, the oculoplastics team has placed more than 300 implants with excellent results. In most cases, the replacement artificial eye demonstrates excellent motility, giving rise to a more natural appearance.
Once the Hydroxyapatite Orbital Implant procedure had been perfected, surgeons directed their research energies toward developing alternative to sea coral. A synthetic structure (Alumina) which mirors the positive qualities of sea coral is now being studied and will soon be used in human trials.
In addition to eye replacements, oculoplastic specialists focus their attention on conditions affecting the eyelids, orbit (boney structure around the eye), and lacrimal (tear duct) system. In treating infections, trauma and tumors, they apply both non-invasive and surgical procedures. Their expertise in eyelid reconstructions and cosmetic realignment of droopy or baggy eyelids is recognized across Canada.
Each year, the oculoplastics team performs more than 1,500 surgical procedures. In addition, some 600-700 patients are treated through biopsy, cryotherapy or laser ablation for various eyelid problems.For more information about the Eye Institute, please visit their web site at :
Taken from The University of Ottawa Eye Institute at the General Campus of the Ottawa Hospital information package. |
