Argon Laser as a Modality Treatment of Trichiasis in Benghazi

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the success rate and safety of argon laser photocoagulation as a modality of treatment for symptomatic trichiasis in Benghazi, Libya. This prospective study was conducted at The Martyr Sohil Alatrash Eye Hospital in Benghazi, between June 2010 and February 2011, 30 patients 55 lids with symptomatic trichiasis were included. They were treated with argon LASER with regular follow up the next 3 months.20 shots of blue-argon laser were directed to the lash root to a depth of 2-3mm. Laser beam variables were: a spot size of 50 microns with exposure of 0.2 s and a power of 1- 1.2 watts. The maximum number of treated lashes per lid was five. Recurrence was defined as regrowth of one or more trichiatic lashes. Up to two additional applications with the same LASER parameters were done for recurrent trichiasis. Success rate after two weeks following first treatment session was only 20 % (11 lids). The overall success rate after two treatment session was 52.73 % (29 lids). Complications of treatment were noticed in two lids only (3.63 %). Hypopigmentation in one lid and notching in another. Argon LASER photocoagulation is a safe and effective office procedure for treatment of symptomatic trichiasis.