Ptosis assessment spectacles: a new method of measuring lid position and movement in children.

PURPOSE

Accurate assessment of eyelid position and movement is vital in planning the surgical correction of ptosis. Conventional measurements taken using a millimeter ruler are considered the gold standard, although in young children this can be a difficult procedure. The authors have designed ptosis assessment spectacles with a measuring millimeter scale marked on the center of the lens to facilitate accurate assessment of eyelid position and function in children. The purpose of the study was to assess the accuracy and reproducibility of eyelid measurement using these ptosis assessment spectacles.

METHODS

Fifty-two children aged 2-12 years were recruited in this study. Each child underwent 2 sets of measurements. The first was undertaken by an ophthalmologist in the conventional manner using a ruler, and the second set made with ptosis assessment spectacles. On each occasion the palpebral aperture, skin crease, and levator function were recorded in millimeters. A verbal analog scale was used to assess parent satisfaction with each method.

RESULTS

Clinically acceptable reproducibility was shown with the ruler and the spectacles for all measurements: palpebral aperture, skin crease, and levator function. Parents significantly preferred the glasses for measurement, as compared with the ruler (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The spectacles are as accurate as conventional methods of measurement, but are easier to use. Children tolerate these spectacles well, and most parents preferred them to the ruler.