Tarsorrhaphy (redirected from Tarsorraphy)

Tarsorrhaphy 

Definition

Tarsorrhaphy is a rare procedure in which the eyelids are partially sewn together to narrow the opening.

Purpose

The eye needs the a lid to protect it. It also needs tears and periodic blinking to cleanse it and keep it moist. There are many conditions that impair these functions and threaten the eye, specifically the cornea, with drying. Until they can be corrected, sewing the eyelids partially together helps protect the eye.

A partial list of the conditions that can require tarsorrhaphy includes:

Precautions

The use of eye drops and contact lenses to moisten and protect the eyes must be considered first before tarsorrhaphy is performed.

Description

Stitches are carefully placed at the corners of the eyelid opening (called the palpebral fissure) to narrow it. This allows the eye better lubrication and less exposure to the air. Eyeball motion can then help bathe the cornea in tears when it rolls up under the lid. The outpatient procedure is done under local anesthetic.

Preparation

Tarsorrhaphy is a minor procedure done under local anesthesia. Special preparation is not necessary.

Aftercare

Eye drops or ointment may still be needed to preserve the cornea or treat accompanying disease.

Risks

Tarsorrhaphy carries few risks. If complications occur, they are usually minor eyelid swelling and superficial infection.

Resources

Books

Sardegna, Jill Otis, and T. Paul. The Encyclopedia of Blindness and Vision Impairment. New York: Facts on File Inc., 1990.

Key terms

Cornea — The clear part of the front of the eye through which vision occurs.

Enophthalmos — A condition in which the eye falls back into the socket and inhibits proper eyelid function.

Exophthalmos — A condition in which the eyes stick out of their sockets and inhibit proper eyelid function.

Palpebral fissure — Eyelid opening.

Sjögren's syndrome — A connective tissue disease that hinders the production of tears and other body fluids.

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tarsorrhaphy /tar·sor·rha·phy/ (tahr-sor´ah-fe) suture of a portion of or the entire upper and lower eyelids together; done to shorten or entirely close the palpebral fissure.

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tar·sor·rha·phy (tär-sôr-f)

n.

A partial or complete suture of the eyelid margins performed to shorten the palpebral fissure or to protect the cornea. Also called blepharorrhaphy.

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tarsorrhaphy

suture of a portion of or the entire upper and lower eyelids for the purpose of shortening or closing the palpebral fissure.