ECTROPION REPAIR
Ectropion is the medical term used to describe an abnormal lower eyelid that turns outward and no longer touches the eye. As a result, the conjunctiva (mucous membrane that lines the eyelid) may become red and irritated. Usually this condition only involves the lower eyelids but on occasion can affect the upper eyelids.
CAUSES OF ECTROPION
Ectropion is usually seen in elderly people. It is a result of changes that take place as we age. The tissues of the eyelid stretch and relax, which affects the support structure of the eyelids. It can also develop as a result of:
- Undetected skin cancer, which pulls the eyelid down.
- Trauma.
- Contraction of scar tissue from wounds, burns or surgery involving the eyelid.
- Following facial nerve palsy, which paralyzes the muscles surrounding the eye.
Ectropion can be further aggravated by the need to constantly wipe the excess tears that form.
SYMPTOMS
Chronic irritation to the eyelid and eye can result in excessive tearing, crusting, mucus discharge, infection, irritation of the cornea (front part of the eye) and impaired vision. When the eyelid is turned outward and no longer touches the eye, it cannot properly spread the tear film across the eye and leads to poor drainage of tears through the nasolacrimal system. The exposed inner lining of the eyelid becomes dry and inflamed.
TREATMENT
Since the tear film is unable to properly lubricate the eye, artificial tears and lubricating ointments must be used to prevent dryness of the cornea. If the ectropion is due to laxity of the eyelid’s supporting structure, then it is best treated surgically. Depending on the cause, surgery can reposition the eyelid so that it is in a normal position against the eye. This is accomplished by tightening the eyelid and its attachments. The surgical procedures are typically performed in an outpatient facility using intravenous sedation.