What is the primary reason for performing tarsorrhaphy on a patient?

What is the primary reason for performing tarsorrhaphy on a patient?

• A. To improve the aesthetic appearance of the eyes
• B. To protect the eye during healing from injury
• C. To enhance the function of the eyelids
• D. To treat infections of the eye

Answer: (B)

Performing tarsorrhaphy primarily serves to protect the eye during the healing process from injury or conditions that compromise the integrity of the eye. This surgical technique involves suturing the eyelids partially or fully closed, which helps to preserve the ocular surface, prevent exposure, and reduce the risk of further injury or complications, especially in cases where the eyelids cannot adequately close on their own due to trauma, neurological deficits, or other issues. The procedure is particularly beneficial for patients with severe corneal exposure or those recovering from surgeries that affect eyelid function. By reducing exposure to environmental factors and contributing to moisture retention, tarsorrhaphy aids in healing and can significantly prevent complications such as corneal ulceration or drying. While other options relate to potential benefits of eyelid procedures, they do not embody the primary indication for tarsorrhaphy, which focuses specifically on protective measures for an injured or compromised eye.

Performing tarsorrhaphy primarily serves to protect the eye during the healing process from injury or conditions that compromise the integrity of the eye. This surgical technique involves suturing the eyelids partially or fully closed, which helps to preserve the ocular surface, prevent exposure, and reduce the risk of further injury or complications, especially in cases where the eyelids cannot adequately close on their own due to trauma, neurological deficits, or other issues.

The procedure is particularly beneficial for patients with severe corneal exposure or those recovering from surgeries that affect eyelid function. By reducing exposure to environmental factors and contributing to moisture retention, tarsorrhaphy aids in healing and can significantly prevent complications such as corneal ulceration or drying.

While other options relate to potential benefits of eyelid procedures, they do not embody the primary indication for tarsorrhaphy, which focuses specifically on protective measures for an injured or compromised eye.