A single- versus double-layered closure technique for full-thickness lower eyelid defects: a comparative study

Jennifer S N Verhoekx, Renoe K Soebhag, Olga Weijtens, Willem A van den Bosch, Dion Paridaens

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

Abstract

PURPOSE: To compare a simplified, single-layered closure technique with a double-layered closure technique in lower eyelid reconstruction following full-thickness pentagonal block excision.

METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, non-randomized, interventional case-control study. Clinical data of consecutive patients treated with primary closure of a full-thickness lower eyelid defect between 2011 and 2014 were analysed. In group A, the defect was closed in one layer, using non-absorbable polypropylene sutures. In group B, the defect was closed in two layers, using absorbable polyglactin acid sutures. In both techniques, we rarely used a grey line suture to adjust the eyelid margin. We assessed notching, wound dehiscence and other complications, as reported at 2 months after surgery.

RESULTS: We included 188 eyelids from 186 patients. In group A, we included 82 eyelids and in group B 106 eyelids. We noted no difference in notching (p = 0.96) whilst wound dehiscence had not occurred in either group. Subcutaneous granuloma formation had been noted in 0 cases in group A, versus 4 in group B (p = 0.08). Mild redness of the scar was seen in 2 cases in group A, versus 5 in group B (p = 0.41). A grey line suture was placed in 6 cases in group A (7.3%), versus 4 cases in group B (3.8%; p = 0.28).

CONCLUSION: Both single- and double-layered closure techniques are safe and effective methods for primary closure of full-thickness lower eyelid defects. In both techniques, a grey line suture was rarely required to adjust the eyelid margin.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)257-60
Number of pages4
JournalActa Ophthalmologica
Volume94
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2016

Keywords

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Blepharoplasty/methods
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Eyelid Diseases/surgery
  • Eyelids/surgery
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Polypropylenes
  • Reconstructive Surgical Procedures
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Suture Techniques
  • Sutures

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