Conjunctivochalasis (CCh) is a prevalent ocular condition associated with aging, which results in the accumulation of excessive conjunctival folds between the eyeball and the lower eyelid margin. CCh exacerbates dry eye disease by reducing the stability and storage capacity of the tear film.¹

1)Argon laser is widely used in ophthalmology due to its convenience, effectiveness, and safety for many types of intraocular and extraocular surgeries, such as conjunctival nevus removal, iridotomy, trabeculoplasty, and retinal photocoagulation.¹

2)As per another research article, the use of the argon laser procedure led to conjunctival shrinkage and, hence, proved effective for the treatment of CCh.¹

Aim:

Materials and Methods:

Results:

The table below lists the clinical outcomes of all eyes.¹

Table 1. CCh grade changes at 6 months after argon laser conjunctivoplasty¹

Adapted from Han J, et al, Medicine. 2023.

• CCh grades of 21 eyes (84%) decreased at 6 months after the modified argon laser conjunctivoplasty (p<0.001)¹
• Following laser conjunctivoplasty, there was a substantial reduction in total grade, calculated as 0.96 times 0.53 (mean ± standard deviation). The postoperative grade showed a significant decrease compared to the preoperative grade (p = 0.001).¹
• Of the 25 patients, 20 (80%) reported subjective satisfaction.¹
• 80% overall success rate was attainted with a single laser treatment.¹

Limitations of the study:

• The study had limitations such as small sample size and short follow-up period, which hindered drawing definitive conclusions about the long-term effects of argon laser therapy.¹
• As it was a retrospective chart review study without a control group, further studies with prospective design on larger patient groups with longer-term follow-ups are recommended, along with the inclusion of other factors such as tear breakup time, Schirmer's test results, and tear meniscus height.¹

• The modified argon laser conjunctivoplasty method is a safe, quick, and effective treatment option for symptomatic CCh, especially in mild-to–moderate cases.¹
• It is a non-invasive, cost-effective, and well-tolerated outpatient procedure that reduces damage to the surrounding tissue and can be used before considering other surgical options.¹

Key takeaway