[The treatment of chalazion by cryogenic action]

The paper describes a proposed and approved method of cryogenic action for treatment of chalazion. Under local anaesthesia by application of 2% or 0.5% instillation of 0.5% dicaine, a two-cycle cryogenic action was conducted for 15-20 seconds through the skin or conjunctiva by means of a cryogenic applicator, cooled by liquid nitrogen, with a removable tip of various form and size depending on the size and volume of chalazion. The freezing was stopped when the icy zone involved all the formation and 1-2 mm of healthy tissue. Cryodestruction was accomplished within 3-7 days, but sometimes 2-8 sessions were required. Total resolution of chalazion was achieved in 47 of 50 patients. The method is simple, can be conducted in outpatient's conditions, doesn't lead to temporary loss of ability to work and may be recommended for use by ophthalmologists.