Treatment of Epiphora in Patients with Conjunctivochalasis Using Conjunctival Fixation to the Sclera

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To report the effects and complications of conjunctival fixation to the sclera in conjunctivochalasis patients with inferior punctal occlusion. METHODS: The authors of the present study evaluated the degree of conjunctivochalasis and performed Fluorescein Dye Disappearance Test (FDT) in 15 eyes of 8 patients diagnosed with conjunctivochalasis with inferior punctal occlusion. Under topical anesthesia, the inferior bulbar conjunctiva was attached to the sclera with 3 8-0 vicryl stitches 8 mm posterior from the limbus. After surgery, the relief of symptoms, postoperative complications and improvement of conjunctivochalasis were observed. RESULTS: One week after the surgery, all 15 eyes achieved a subjective improvement of symptoms and the degree of conjunctivochalasis and FDT showed statistical difference after surgery (p = 0.000, 0.000, respectively). A complication occurred in 1 eye which was a retinal hemorrhage due to scleral puncture. CONCLUSIONS: Conjunctival fixation to the sclera could improve epiphora in conjunctivochalasis patients with inferior punctal occlusion. However, this procedure should be performed with caution.