A simplified cryotherapy technique for trichiasis and distichiasis.

Abstract

A simplified cryotherapy technique for the treatment of trichiasis and distichiasis is described. The success rate of aberrant lash ablation with one treatment was 82%; this was increased to 95% with a repeat treatment. There have been minimal long-term side effects. This paper shows that a simplified time-based technique without the use of a thermocouple has produced results similar to other series using thermocouple control. A nitrous oxide cryo unit was used in a double freeze-thaw cycle to treat the area of aberrant lash growth. The times in the double freeze-thaw cycle found to be effective were 45 seconds freezing with a four-minute thaw in the first cycle and a repeat freezing cycle of 45 seconds' duration.