Tarsorrhaphy

Tarsorrhaphy is a surgical procedure that involves the partial or complete suturing of the eyelids together. This procedure is typically performed to protect the cornea in conditions where it is unable to close completely, such as in cases of Bell's palsy, lagophthalmos, or exposure keratitis. Tarsorrhaphy can also be used as a treatment for severe dry eyes or corneal ulcers.

Procedure

Tarsorrhaphy can be performed under local or general anesthesia. The procedure involves bringing the upper and lower eyelids together and suturing them to create a temporary or permanent closure. This closure can be partial, leaving a small opening for limited vision, or complete, in which the eyelids are fully sutured together.

Types of Tarsorrhaphy

There are three main types of tarsorrhaphy: temporary, permanent, and marginal.

• Temporary Tarsorrhaphy: This is often used as a short-term solution to protect the cornea from exposure. The sutures are typically removed after a few days or weeks, once the underlying condition has improved.
• Permanent Tarsorrhaphy: This is typically used in severe cases where the eyelid function is unlikely to recover. The sutures are not removed, resulting in a permanent closure of the eyelids.
• Marginal Tarsorrhaphy: This involves suturing only the outer edges of the eyelids together, leaving the majority of the eye open. This is often used in cases where partial vision is still possible.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, tarsorrhaphy carries some risks. These can include infection, bleeding, and reaction to anesthesia. There is also the risk of the sutures becoming loose or breaking, which could lead to reopening of the eyelids and exposure of the cornea.

See Also

• Ophthalmology
• Cornea
• Bell's palsy
• Lagophthalmos
• Keratitis