Patients in the ICU or undergoing surgery now have an alternative to adhesive tape to keep their eyes closed to prevent eye desiccation or injury. The Med-Eye Pillow is designed to rest over both eyes and the bridge of the nose where it provides enough pressure to keep the lids closed, yet can be lifted and discarded instantly.

Experienced anaesthetist, Dr Stephen Gipson, developed the pillow after witnessing allergic responses, corneal abrasions, and other conditions caused by eyelid taping during surgery.

“Patients have enough to deal with during their post-op recovery without adding eye trauma to the mix,” said Gipson. “Our goal is to make the Med-Eye Pillow a new standard of care that’s safer, more humane, and easier to implement.”

The pillow:

• Uses gravity to hold the eyelids closed naturally
• Is made with small non-irritating silicone pellets encased in a porous, breathable material
• Is easy to manipulate during surgery and remove after
• Has no adhesive, meaning no allergic reactions, tearing of eyelashes or damage to delicate skin in the ocular area
• Can be used on elderly patients or those with sensitive skin or skin conditions.