Lateral canthal tendon suspension using the carbon dioxide laser. A modified technique.
BACKGROUND
The "tarsal strip" procedure was developed to correct lower eyelid ectropion caused by lateral canthal tendon laxity.


OBJECTIVE
The "tarsal strip" procedure is improved by using the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser.


METHODS
The CO2 laser was used to perform lateral canthotomy. Patients were evaluated postoperatively for subjective improvement in preoperative symptoms. Complications such as epithelial inclusion cysts were actively sought.


RESULTS
Thirty-one patients (60 lids) were followed for an average of 12 months. Preoperative symptoms resolved in 86% (N = 27), improved in 7% (N = 2), and did not change in 7% (N = 2). Two patients required additional surgery. Complications were not observed in this study.


CONCLUSIONS
The modified "tarsal strip" procedure using the CO2 laser provides many advantages compared with the original procedure. A clean dissection improves visibility and allows easy identification of the lateral tarsal plate. The lateral canthal angle is preserved and epithelial inclusions are prevented because the conjunctival mucosa is not violated.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004483:Ectropion / Q000601:surgery; D005143:Eyelids / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013536:Suture Techniques; D013710:Tendons / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome