Severing of a Lateral Tarsorrhaphy

This is Richard Allen at the University of Iowa.  This video demonstrates the opening or severing of a lateral tarsorrhaphy.  The patient had the tarsorrhaphy placed for neurotrophic keratopathy.  The lateral tarsorrhaphy is demonstrated.  Utility scissors are then used to incise the tarsorrhaphy between the cilia of the upper and lower eyelid.  The severing is completed.  The eyelid margins are demonstrated.  Hemostasis is not necessary.  A combination antibiotic-steroid ointment is used to prevent readhesion post-operatively for one week.