OPHTHALMIC CONDITIONS
Ectropion
The lax becoming and outward turn of the eyelid
What exactly is ectropion and what are the main causes of its appearance?
Ectropion is the ocular condition where the eyelid becomes lax away from the eye, resulting in its outward twisting.
Ectropion of the lower eyelid is more common in elderly individuals. Over the years, the tissues of the lower eyelid may lose part of their elasticity, while in parallel the general loosening of the tendons at the inner and outer corners of the eyelids contributes to instability. Consequently, the eyelid inevitably droops downward (hanging away from the eye) and turns outward.
Eyelid injuries, facial skin scars, chemical burns, certain skin diseases, skin cancer are in position to lead to outward turning of the eyelids.
In ectropion, the anatomical relation between the eyelid and the eye is altered. In fact, the lower eyelid cannot protect the eye from the external environment. This can result in chronic exposure of the cornea, increasing the risk of infection or even corneal perforation.
What are the main symptoms of ectropion?
The primary clinical signs of ectropion include:
Excessive tearing
Dryness of the eye
Redness and pain
Chronic irritation
Sensation of a foreign body
Purulent and mucous discharge
Sensitivity to wind and light
How can ectropion be effectively treated?
Undoubtedly, the ideal treatment for ectropion is surgical intervention. The surgical operation involves tightening the tissues of the lower eyelid to restore it to its normal position. This surgical procedure is performed with local anesthesia, injected into the eyelid, and involves a small incision at the outer corner of the eyelid.
After the surgery, the eye is usually kept closed for 24 hours to reduce swelling. The patient uses antibiotic ointment for 1 – 2 weeks. A postoperative follow – up examination is necessary to check the eyelid’s position and remove any remaining stitches.
More complex cases with a high degree of difficulty require a more intricate surgical approach. It is worth mentioning that, in certain types of ectropion, the surgical procedure may require a skin graft on the eyelid.
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