New Device for the Correction of Aphakia Without Capsular Support.

PURPOSE: This study describes a prototype developed for aphakia without capsular support (AWCS) and its proof of concept. METHODS: This descriptive study used a 3D software to create and analyze virtual prototypes before manufacturing. A nylon-6/nylon-6.6 copolymer filament and a 3D printer were used for prototyping. A device implantation technique was developed using a 23-gauge hypodermic needle. Two opposing markings, 2 mm posterior to the limbus, were made to determine the location of the scleral punctures and the final position of the device. After adequate centralization and positioning of the device, its haptics were cut and cauterized to generate thermal modeling of the extremity and allow the thickening of the tips (flange), serving as an anchoring mechanism to the sclera. The efficacy and adequacy of the technique and device were then evaluated. RESULTS: Vitreous tissue extrusion was not observed during the sclerotomy. The device was well fixed to the sclera; however, adequate IOL stability and centralization still needed to be achieved. The surgeon evaluated the adequacy of all the other devices' characteristics. CONCLUSIONS: The development of a technology prototype for correcting AWCS was possible. Although the proposed prototype met most of the established concept guidelines, the stability of the IOL position remains challenging.

Microbial Cross-contamination in Multidose Eyedrops: The Impact of Instillation Angle and Bottle Geometry.

Purpose: To evaluate the impact of instillation angle and nozzle tip geometry on cross-contamination risk of multidose ocular solution bottles. Methods: Pseudomonas aeruginosa solution was passed exclusively on the outside of the nozzle to simulate contamination on the exterior of topical agents. Three drops were administered from angles of 90° and 45° from bottles with either a round or sharp tip geometry, and the cultures were examined for growth. Two-hundred sixteen cultures from nine lubricant eyedrop brands currently existing in the Brazilian market were assessed for bacterial growth. Results: After seven days, bacterial contamination was detected in 53.7% of cultures when drops were administered at 90° and in 70.4% of cultures at 45°. Eyedrops collected from a rounded nozzle tip and an instillation angle of 90° transmitted bacteria in 69.4% of cases, whereas those administered from a sharp tip transmitted bacteria in only 22.2% of cases (P = 0.001). At an instillation angle of 45°, contamination was identified in 83.3% of bottles with a rounded tip geometry and in only eight of 18 bottles (44.4%) from those with a sharp nozzle geometry (P = 0.005). Conclusions: Adjusting the instillation angle of eyedrop solutions to 90°, as well as using a nozzle geometry that prevents flow of the solution to the side of the bottle, significantly reduced contamination rates. Translational Relevance: Standardizing drop bottles and adjusting delivery angle shows promise in reducing contamination rates and may critically impact the quality of care for patients requiring topical therapeutic agents.

Low cost assistive technology to support educational activities for adolescents with cerebral palsy.

INTRODUCTION: The concept of assistive technology covers several areas of action; one of them is communication with the elaboration of accessible solutions to overcome daily difficulties. It contributes to the resumption of functional abilities, expanding and facilitating inclusion and independent living. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the usability of a low cost prototype device to support educational activities of adolescents with cerebral palsy. METHODS: A descriptive observational study. The evaluation of a prototype device was made through a validated questionnaire, Quest Version 2.0, on the level of the user's satisfaction with an assistive technology, composed of 12 evaluation items. The questionnaire was filled out by the educator based on the observation of four wheelchair-bound participants diagnosed with cerebral palsy according to the international classification of diseases and health-related problems, ICD-10, who attend a coexistence and teaching institution in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. RESULTS: The device developed was considered an assistive technology, which provided an experience with a positive level of satisfaction for the participants. CONCLUSION: The tested prototype contributes to communication and interaction allowing adolescents with cerebral palsy to participate in educational activities. Implications for Rehabilitation The device assists the individual in the educational activities and can positively influence their development, observe the individual number 5, who has an important limitation in coordination and fine movements, placing the role of the task in the vertical position offers a new perspective to perform the task, this stimulates him to try to perform the work, so the challenge was adjusted to the demands of each individual which can contribute to its neuromotor development, the amplitude of the distal movements and the manual ability, since it must look for alternatives to complete the task requested.