Argon laser treatment of trichiasis.

This paper presents the application of argon laser in the treatment of trichiasis. The technique involves the destruction of the follicles of the abnormal cilia. A beam of 50- to 200-micron spot size, 0.1- to 0.2 second time, and 1,000 to 1,200 mW power is used under local anesthesia. This method proved safe, convenient, precise, and effective in 11 cases. The technique is most suitable when a few fine cilia are involved, but repeated treatment may be required for more and thicker eyelashes. The follow-up period in this study varied from a minimum of four months to a maximum of nine months.