Simple surgical approach with high-frequency radio-wave electrosurgery for conjunctivochalasis.

OBJECTIVE

To introduce a new simple surgical approach with high-frequency radio-wave electrosurgery to reduce conjunctivochalasis (CCh).

DESIGN

Prospective, noncomparative, interventional case series analysis.

PARTICIPANTS

Twelve patients (20 eyes) with CCh were recruited from the outpatient service of the Department of Ophthalmology, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Seoul, Korea.

METHODS

On the inferior bulbar conjunctiva, subconjunctival coagulation was performed with a fine-needle electrode using a high-frequency radio-wave electrosurgical unit (Ellman Surgitron; Ellman International, Inc., Hewlett, NY) in coagulation mode.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Conjunctivochalasis grade; epiphora and dry eye symptoms (the Ocular Surface Disease Index [OSDI]; Allergan Inc., Irvine, CA, holds the copyright); and intraoperative and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Eighteen eyes (90%) recovered a smooth, wet, and noninflamed conjunctival surface within 1 month and remained stable for a follow-up period of 3 months. At 3 months postoperatively, 18 eyes (90%) had grade 0 CCh. There was a statistically significant decrease of the OSDI score at 3 months postoperatively (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A surgical approach with high-frequency radio-wave electrosurgery produced a significant reduction in CCh and an improvement in symptoms. Radio-wave surgical techniques represent a favorable alternative to surgical treatment of CCh.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S): The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.