Do it yourself fixation target: Magnifix.

Dear Editor,

Eye fixation during slit-lamp examination is an important prerequisite for a careful and proper ocular exam. Difficult target fixation of the patient’s eye during slit-lamp examination is a common problem faced by ophthalmologists. Attempts are made by an examiner by asking the patients to fixate on a certain target to obtain a stable fixation; however, they are often unsatisfactory due to inability of few patients to comply with instructions, lack of a proper target, or obstruction due to movement of the optical portion of the slit lamp.[1] Patients tend to have a still gaze when they fixate on a simple visual target.[2] Previous studies have reported the best fixation stability with combination of bull’s eye and crosshair.[3]

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the introduction of a slit-lamp shield, which prevents aerosol transmission between the doctor and patient.[4] The presence of a faded shield can lead to further confusion during target fixation. Using the slit-lamp shield as a base, we attached two coin magnets (10 mm × 1 mm) on either side of the shield to make a freely movable fixation target named magnifix [Fig. 1a and b]. The coin magnet facing the patient is stuck with a red reflector that helps in an easier fixation location. The magnetic force makes the movement on the shield easy with good fixation location and ocular stability in the clinician’s desired direction. Attractive magnets can be used for pediatric patients for easy compliance and fixation.

Figure 1

(a) Coin magnets and fridge magnets used as fixation target; (b) easy mobility of the DIY Magnifix over the safe slit-lamp shield due to the attractive force between the two coin magnets

Magnifix is a cost effective, universal, do it yourself solution to the basic problem of target fixation during slit-lamp examination. It is especially indicated when accurate, prolonged, and yet variable fixation is desired. We have found that it is of particular value for corneal foreign body removal, pediatric patients, uncooperative patients, and hard of hearing patients [Fig. 2a-d].

Figure 2

(a and b) Pediatric patient following the movement of Magnifix; (c and d) adult patients undergoing slit-lamp examination with good target fixation

Declaration of patient consent

The authors certify that they have obtained all appropriate patient consent forms. In the form the patient(s) has/have given his/her/their consent for his/her/their images and other clinical information to be reported in the journal. The patients understand that their names and initials will not be published and due efforts will be made to conceal their identity, but anonymity cannot be guaranteed.

Financial support and sponsorship

Nil.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.