Vatahata Vartma (Ptosis): An Integrative Ayurvedic Clinical Study with Conceptual Revalidation

Abstract

Ptosis is a condition where there is abnormal drooping of eyelid, which may be complete or partial. It may be congenital or acquired and can affect either one eye (uniocular) or both eye (binocular). Vatahata Vartma is one of the Netra Rogas affecting the eyelid (Vartma), described by Acharya Susruta and Acharya Vagbha?a. The lakshanas mentioned by Acharya Susruta is suggestive of incomplete closure of the eyelid, whereas that described by Acharya Vagbha?a corresponds to abnormal drooping of the eyelid. On analysing the descriptions of both Acharyas, it is evident that Vatahata Vartma encompasses disorders related to impaired mobility of the eyelid. The nomenclature itself signifies the pivotal role of Vata in Vatahata Vartma. Aggravation of vata occurs mainly due to two fundamental reasons either due to dhathu kshaya or due to avarana. Vatahata Vartma is described as Asadhya in terms of prognosis. However, in clinical practice, many Vatahata conditions show favourable response to Ayurvedic management. Therefore, treatment should not be neglected solely based on classical prognosis. In the present scenario, re-evaluation, validation, and upgradation of prognostic assessment are essential. Treatment protocol that is to be adopted depends on the nidana causing the vata vitiation addressing the kevala vata dosha or avaarana vata. This article discusses a case of vatahata vartma a female patient aged 70 years with complete ptosis with right oculomotor nerve palsy following trauma. The case study helps in highlighting the scope of ayurveda in the treatment and the conservative management of ptosis so vatahata vartma described by acharya vaghbata is discussed.