Korean Lepr Bull.  2015 Dec;48(1):31-36. 10.0000/klb.2015.48.1.31.

Lid Splitting with Lash Resection for Trichiasis in Long-Standing Leprosy

• Ahn SY
• Kim JP
• Park HJ

• KMID: 2158550
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.0000/klb.2015.48.1.31

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Trichiasis is the inward inversion of the eyelash, resulting in painful contact with the cornea, which is a common symptom of patients with leprosy seeking treatment in leprosy outpatient clinics. Recurrence rates are high when trichiasis is treated with conventional methods such as epilation and electrolysis.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate prospectively a more aggressive surgical technique, lid splitting with lash resection, for trichiasis in long standing leprosy as a pilot study.
METHODS
During the past 10 months, we treated 12 leprosy patients (18 eyelids) for trichiasis by splitting the lid margin at the gray line with resection of the eyelash bearing portion to modify the anterior lamellar repositioning.
RESULTS
In all patients, pain disappeared immediately and there were no complications. The low number of patients and relatively short follow-up period are study limitations.
CONCLUSION
The lid splitting with lash resection for trichiasis in patients with long standing leprosy is a satisfied treatment method functionally and cosmetically.

Keyword

Gray line; Lash resection; Lid splitting; Trichiasis

MeSH Terms

Ambulatory Care Facilities
Cornea
Electrolysis
Follow-Up Studies
Hair Removal
Humans
Leprosy*
Pilot Projects
Prospective Studies
Recurrence
Trichiasis*