Hughes procedure

Hughes procedure is a surgical procedure used in the treatment of ptosis, or drooping of the upper eyelid. Named after the American ophthalmologist Wendell L. Hughes, the procedure involves the use of a strip of the patient's own fascia lata (a band of connective tissue located on the outer thigh) to support the eyelid.

Procedure

The Hughes procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the upper eyelid to expose the levator muscle, which is responsible for lifting the eyelid. The levator muscle is then detached from the eyelid and a strip of fascia lata is harvested from the patient's thigh. This strip is then threaded through the upper eyelid and attached to the levator muscle, effectively creating a new support structure for the eyelid.

Indications

The Hughes procedure is indicated for patients with severe ptosis, where the levator muscle is weak or poorly functioning. It may also be used in cases where previous ptosis surgery has failed.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, the Hughes procedure carries risks, including infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Specific to this procedure, there may be a risk of overcorrection or undercorrection of the ptosis, resulting in asymmetry between the two eyes. There may also be a risk of damage to the levator muscle, which could further impair eyelid function.

Recovery

Recovery from the Hughes procedure typically involves a period of swelling and bruising, which can be managed with cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medication. Patients are usually able to return to normal activities within a week, although complete healing may take several weeks.

See Also

• Ptosis
• Fascia lata
• Levator muscle

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