Friday, December 19, 2008
Dr. David Tse explains the benefits of FCI Ophthalmics’ new Integrated Orbital Tissue Expander in a conversation with Dr. Timothy McCulley (UCSF).
The integrated orbital tissue expander (OTE), designed by Dr. David Tse (US patent #6582465), consists of a flexible “balloon/expander” held in place by a titanium fixation plate that is anchored to the lateral orbital wall by screws. A slotted arm attached to the fixation plate, extends through a slot that is formed within the OTE. The OTE will be self-centered in the expanding socket as the orbit grows. A 30 gauge disposable hypodermic needle connected to a 1cc disposable syringe filled with sterile saline is inserted into the OTE through an injection port. The injection track seals upon the removal of the needle. Inflation of the OTE will effect pressure on the orbit of the patient.
The OTE is used in the treatment of:
- congenital anophthalmia
- congenital microphthalmia
- acquired anophthalmia from cases such as early ocular tumors or trauma
Benefits of the OTE:
- Implanted using normal oculoplastic surgical techniques
- Does not require multiple surgeries
- Multiple fixation areas on bone plate; allows for fixation point change as child grows
- Can easily be inflated or deflated without surgery
- Inflation and deflation can be controlled by the doctor
- Can be removed and replaced. There are two adjustments required periodically:
- Inflation of the globe to stimulate bone growth
- Confirmation of self-centering
The infant is carefully followed by the surgeon who decides the adjustment intervals required to facilitate the desired result of facial symmetry. The recommended use for the OTE is one year, but optimal removal time is at the surgeon’s discretion.