Trachomatous trichiasis, a potentially blinding condition where inward-turned eyelashes scratch the front of the eye, can successfully be treated by either of the two most common types of eyelid surgery, according to findings from a large comparison trial. In light of previous, smaller studies, which suggested that one of the commonly used surgery types had poorer outcomes, this study provides reassurance that either technique can treat the condition. The study, "The impact of modified incision height and surgical procedure on trichiasis surgery outcomes: Results of the Maximizing Trichiasis Surgery Success (MTSS) Randomized Trial," is published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases .
"Some studies have reported post-operative trichiasis rates of 30% or higher for patients with trachomatous trichiasis following surgery, and repeat surgeries are more difficult," said Emily Gower, Ph.D., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
"This trial sought to determine if we could decrease the risk of post-operative trichiasis by modifying the surgical procedure. We found that existing approaches result in better outcomes." Trachomatous trichiasis affects approximately 1.
7 million people worldwide, mostly in poor and rural areas of Africa. The condition arises after repeated or chronic eye infections with the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis, which is spread by person-to-person contact. Trachoma is very common in hot, dry areas of the world, and repeat infections can eventually lead to s.