Surgery of Lower Eyelid Ectropion with the Tarsal Strip Procedure, Using Absorbable or Non-Absorbable Sutures for Periosteal Fixation

Abstract

Purpose Tightening of the lower eyelid is often performed and many techniques are available. This paper describes the outcome of lower eyelid ectropion repair using the lateral tarsal strip procedure. Periosteal fixation of the tarsal strip can be performed with absorbable or non-absorbable sutures. This study compares the surgical results of periosteal fixation of the tarsal strip with a) absorbable and b) non-absorbable suture. Methods Of 206 patients who underwent surgery, data from 161 were available. During the 6 month follow-up period, suture material, recurrence rates and complications were assessed. The analysis was based on photo documentation, surgery reports and patient statements. In all cases surgery was performed by the same surgeon. Results After 6 months, patients showed similar recurrence rates, regardless of whether periosteal fixation of the tarsal strip had been performed with absorbable (61 patients) or non-absorbable (100 patients) material. Only a few complications occurred, including wound healing problems and one allergic reaction in the non-absorbable group. Conclusions In cases of lower eyelid ectropion, the surgical outcome after the tarsal strip procedure was similar for absorbable and non-absorbable sutures.