The psychosocial impact of losing an eye through traumatic injury and living with prosthetic restoration: A thematic analysis.

This study aims to explore the psychosocial factors and challenges affecting the lives of those who wear an ocular prosthesis following a traumatic eye injury. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with eight individuals resulted in five themes: emotional devastation in the aftermath; moving forward; fear of negative social evaluation; keeping it normal - protecting self and close others; and threat of injury & blindness. Enucleation or evisceration of an eye causes significant emotional stress.

Evaluation of the Northern Ireland National Artificial Eye Service: A Regional Audit of Patient and Prosthetic Characteristics.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to establish an up-to-date baseline of the profile of patients using the National Artificial Eye Service in Northern Ireland and to understand key areas of service provision, to contribute to patient and health-care provider education, and thus to improve patient outcomes for future researchers.

Methods: A prospective audit of artificial eye wearers attending the Northern Ireland National Artificial Eye Service between May 18, 2015 and June 26, 2015 was conducted.

Results: A total of 131 patients, who attended consecutively for appointments over the 6-week period, were included: males 68%; females 32%.