A superior and inferior orbital rim-based orbitometer

Abstract

In exophthalmometry, alterations in the lateral orbital rim cause inaccuracy in serial readings when this structure is used as a fixation base. The authors have found that, compared with the Hertel-type lateral-rim-based instrument, an exophthalmometer based on the superior and inferior orbital rim areas bilaterally appears to be more accurate and is more comfortable, making it especially useful with pediatric patients. That the new exophthalmometer can be aligned at the mid-pupil horizontally and vertically with a vertical fixation bar enhances accuracy. In addition, the device can measure hypo-ophthalmos and hyperophthalmos by virtue of a vertical bar gradient scale.