[Technic and long-term results of cryogenic epilation in trichiasis and distichiasis]

The present paper communicates the technique and results of cryoepilation in 1,690 cases (94% trichiasis and 6% distichiasis). Only nitrogen cryotherapy devices are totally suitable for this, and the spray freezing method is to be preferred. The IKG unit developed by the authors, which has proved successful in particular for tumor therapy, is also ideal for cryoepilation. It generates a very tightly bundled nitrogen spray jet, thus permitting isolated freezing of the lid margin. In about 95% of the cases permanent epilation is achieved without undue trauma. In 5% the condition described by Fraunfelder as "secondary trichiasis" develops. Ocular pemphigoid is not a contraindication to cryotherapy.