Medial ectropion: association with lower lacrimal obstruction and combined management

Abstract

Nine consecutive patients who presented with a medial ectropion (12 eyelids) and epiphora were prospectively evaluated and surgically managed. Medial ectropion was successfully corrected in all 12 eyelids (mean follow-up 12.2 months). A lateral tarsal strip procedure (Anderson procedure) was used to correct the horizontal lid laxity. Resecting the retractors of the lower lid subjacent to the punctal area corrected the punctal eversion. Prior to medial ectropion repair, three of the 12 eyes demonstrated evidence of complete obstruction at or below the level of the lacrimal sac. These patients required concurrent dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in addition to repair of the medial ectropion. DCR with silicone intubation obviated the need for anastomosis of lacrimal sac and nasal mucosal flaps, and it corrected the punctal stenosis. Histopathologic examination of the sac specimens confirmed chronic inflammation. One of six patients without complete obstruction required DCR after medial ectropion repair and punctoplasty. Medial ectropion may predispose to lower lacrimal obstruction. In turn, the epiphora may lead to aggravation of the medial ectropion as a result of wiping of tears.