The Köllner Tarsoconjunctival Flap for Lower Eyelid Reconstruction: Historical Perspective and Surgical Outcomes of 140 Cases

This study reviews the history, techniques, and outcomes of a large series of patients treated with a modified Köllner flap. Methods: In this observational cohort study, medical records and photographs were reviewed in patients undergoing surgery between 2005 and 2020. Patient demographics, complications, secondary interventions, and outcomes were evaluated. Results: Marginal defect size ranged from 12 to 41 mm among the 140 study patients. Ancillary procedures included lower eyelid conjunctival flaps (n = 64) and septal orbicularis flaps (n = 68). The anterior lamella was reconstructed with skin grafts (n = 86), flaps (n = 10), or combined flaps/grafts (n = 44). Pedicle division was performed 23 to 84 days after primary repair. Subsequent interventions included steroid injection (n = 10), cryotherapy (n = 10), marginal erythema treatment (n = 9), and upper eyelid retraction repair (n = 6). Tearing (6.5%) and dryness (10%) were the most common postoperative symptoms, with most patients (78.6%) being asymptomatic. A good-excellent functional outcome was achieved in 94.3% and cosmetic outcome in 85.0% of cases. Defects
Source: Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery - Category: Opthalmology Tags: Original Investigations Source Type: research