Electrolysis outcomes for eyelid trichiasis: Consultants versus trainees

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Treatments

Background:

• Trichiasis and distichiasis are eyelid conditions requiring effective treatment.
• Electrolysis is a recognized therapeutic modality for these conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of electrolysis for trichiasis and distichiasis.
• To compare electrolysis success rates based on eyelid location and surgeon experience.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 187 patient records from November 2015 to November 2020.
• Data collected included patient demographics, indication, eyelid treated, surgeon seniority, and treatment outcomes.

Main Results:

• Attending physicians demonstrated significantly higher success rates after the first electrolysis session compared to residents (P=0.048).
• Treating lower eyelids alone resulted in a significantly higher success rate than treating upper or both eyelids simultaneously (P=0.005).

Conclusions:

• Scheduling patients with recurrent trichiasis or distichiasis, particularly of the upper eyelids, with attending physicians may improve departmental efficiency.
• Enhanced training for ophthalmology residents in electrolysis indications and techniques is recommended.