Use of eye shields and eye lubricants among oculoplastic and Mohs surgeons: a survey.
BACKGROUND
Eye shields and lubricants are recommended for use in the eye during periorbital surgery to prevent injury to the globe. Nonetheless, data regarding their use is sparse, and no study to date has examined the prevalence of their usage and complications.


OBJECTIVE
To investigate how commonly eye shields and lubricants are used during periorbital surgery and whether there are complications from their use.


METHODS
The authors conducted a survey of oculoplastic and Mohs surgery fellowship directors. The questionnaire investigated the prevalence of use of eye shields and lubricants, complications encountered, and whether the standard of care requires or prohibits their use.


RESULTS
A majority of those surveyed at least sometimes use eye shields in periorbital surgery, particularly to prevent patient injury. Most surgeons believe there are more pros than cons to their use. However, corneal abrasions may be encountered and may be related to the type of lubricant chosen. Surgeons using fat-based lubricants tended to encounter more complications with eye shield use.


CONCLUSIONS
Eye shield and lubricant use is common among oculoplastic and Mohs surgeons. However, most disagree as to whether the standard of care requires or forbids their use.
Ogle
Christina A
CA
Department of Dermatology, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
Shim
Elisabeth K
EK
Godwin
James A
JA
D065306:Corneal Injuries; D004867:Equipment Design; D005131:Eye Injuries / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005135:Eye Protective Devices / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D015580:Mohs Surgery / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D013508:Ophthalmologic Surgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions