[Anterior lamellar resection with lid margin split of the upper eyelid in the treatment of trachomatous entropion]

Abstract

Introduction: The goal of this study is to assess functional and aesthetic results of anterior lamellar resection with lid margin splitting of the upper lid in the treatment of cicatricial trachomatous entropion.

Patients and methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study of a series of 26 consecutive patients treated between January 2014 and December 2015. All patients were operated for cicatricial trachomatous entropion in our tertiary center using the technique of the anterior lamellar resection with lid margin splitting of the upper eyelid. All patients were followed for 6 to 12 months after surgery. The anatomical, functional and aesthetic results were evaluated six months after surgery. They were considered good if there was no recurrence of the entropion, no lashes in contact with the cornea and no associated eyelid complications.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 68.5±10 years with a male predominance (sex ratio=1.8). The average initial corrected visual acuity was 0.65±0.35 LogMAR, ranging from counting fingers at 1m to 6/10. Involvement was bilateral in 34.6% of cases. Correction of the cicatricial entropion was achieved in 24 patients (92.3% of cases) and full correction of misdirected lashes without any contact with the ocular surface was obtained in 23 patients (88.4% of cases). The lid margin was regular in 88.4% of cases. A significant improvement of the tear film and corneal surface was observed in 84.6% of patients. During the follow-up period, no cases of recurrent entropion were reported.

Discussion: Among the various surgical techniques, anterior lamellar resection with lid margin splitting is one that most respects the anatomy of the upper eyelid and allows precise intraoperative control of eyelid rotation and eversion of the misdirected lashes. Therefore, it reduces significantly the risk of recurrence and significantly enhances the aesthetic results of surgery.

Conclusion: Anterior lamellar resection with lid margin splitting of the upper eyelid is a simple and effective technique that significantly improves the aesthetic result of cicatricial trachomatous entropion.

Keywords: Anterior lamellar resection; Entropion; Margin split; Marginoplastie; Recul de la lamelle antérieure; Trachoma; Trachome; Trichiasis.