When standard tools aren’t available: catheter balloons as orbital implant sizers
Author: Daniel Beck
Base Hospital / Institution: Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion
ePoster presentation
Abstract ID: 24-295
Purpose
Determining the appropriate size for an orbital implant in cases of enucleation and evisceration can be challenging without specialized sizing equipment, often leading to implant wastage. Foley catheters, being inexpensive and readily available in hospital settings, present a potential alternative. This study aimed to evaluate whether Foley catheter balloons could be effectively utilized to estimate the size of secondary orbital implants following evisceration or enucleation.
Methods
We assessed latex and silicone Foley catheters of sizes 12Ch to 16Ch. The catheter balloons were inflated with normal saline in volumes ranging from 3ml to 9ml, with measurements taken at 0.5ml increments. The spherical diameters of the balloons were measured using a digital vernier caliper, and the shapes were evaluated for their sphericity and reproducibility.
Results
Our findings indicate that a 12Ch latex Foley catheter balloon consistently achieved a spherical shape, with diameters ranging from 18mm to 22mm. Beyond this range, the sphericity diminished. Additionally, we found it feasible to trim the end of the latex Foley catheter down to the balloon without causing leakage, allowing for greater intraoperative utility.
Conclusion
Foley catheters offer a cost-effective, readily available, and sterile alternative tool in operating theatres for sizing orbital implants. A single 12Ch latex Foley catheter can reliably be used to size orbital implants within an 18mm to 22mm range, with volume adjustments made using a 10ml syringe.
Additional Authors
| First name | Last name | Base Hospital / Institution |
|---|---|---|
| Jonathan | Foulds | Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion |
| James | McGhee | Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion |
