New speculum optimizes surgical field

Key Points

In contrast to most lid specula that have two posts and open the eye to a square or rectangular shape, the triple-post speculum-with its extra middle post-exposes the eye in a more ideal circular or oval configuration.

"When surgery is [performed with the patient] under topical anesthesia, there may be a tendency for the eye to rotate up as a result of Bell's phenomenon," Dr. Brown said. "Often, that makes no difference technically because the area of exposure is sufficiently large. However, in some patients with smaller or deeper-set eyes, gaining the extra exposure superiorly by lifting the center portion of the upper lid with a third post really can facilitate the surgery."