[Medical terminology. Blepharorhaphy]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Classification

Background:

• Current ophthalmic literature lacks definitive classification for eyelid closure surgeries.
• Tarsorrhaphy is common in Western countries, while blepharorhaphy is prevalent in Russia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a more appropriate terminology for eyelid closure surgeries.
• To refine the classification of surgical procedures for eyelid closure.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of existing ophthalmic literature on eyelid closure surgeries.
• Comparison of the terms tarsorrhaphy and blepharorhaphy based on surgical technique.

Main Results:

• Blepharorhaphy is suggested as a more fitting term due to sutures passing through all palpebral layers.
• Distinction proposed between simple blepharorhaphy (temporary, suture-only) and ankylosing blepharorhaphy (temporary or permanent).

Conclusions:

• Blepharorhaphy is recommended over tarsorrhaphy for eyelid closure surgery.
• A revised classification of blepharorhaphy into simple and ankylosing types is proposed.
• The authors advocate for reconsidering the current classification of these surgical procedures.