Temporary tarsorrhaphy "zipper"

Reconstructive eyelid procedures on occasion justify the concomitant use of a temporary, reversible tarsorrhaphy to provide corneal protection. A dilemma ensues in the trauma patient when frequent neurological evaluations simultaneously requires examination of the pupils. To circumvent the inconvenience of repeated suturing of the eyelids as in an occlusive suture, a technique with the facility of the opening and closing of a zipper is reviewed that allows rapid removal and reestablishment of the desired temporary tarsorrhaphy.