Introduction

To evaluate the efficacy of surgical „Lazy-T” method used to correct ectropion of the lower punctum with the inferior lid laxity and the medial canthal tendon.

Material and methods

Between January 2004 and February 2005, four patients of mean age 67 years (±12) were operated with this method. In two patients, one eyelid was operated; the other two patients underwent bilateral lid surgery. Preoperative qualifications included: subjective assessment of epiphora (range 0-10 points), where 0 represents loss of epiphora and 10 points maximum intensification with ectropion of the lower punctum, laxity of the inferior eyelid more than 10 mm, and laxity of the medial canthal tendon of 2-nd degree or more. Two subjects, who expressed their consent, underwent lacrimal scintigraphy. Surgical technique included excise of the middle part of the lid at its full thickness, laterally from lower punctum, and correction of the conjunctiva. The follow-up period was 6 months averagely.

Results

All patients reported reduction of epiphora of 5 points on the average. Eyelid laxity decreased by mean 4.5 mm (±1.0 mm). In two patients epiphora regressed, in two others – decreased. All patients evaluated the cosmetic result as satisfactory

Conclusions

The „Lazy-T” correction is an effective procedure, which restores the lower punctum into its normal anatomical position. It is a simple surgical technique that can free patients from epiphora.