symblepharonr
Pronunciation: sim-BLEF-ah-ron
Adhesion between the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva, restricting eye movement and lid function.
Full Definition
Symblepharon is an abnormal adhesion or fusion between the conjunctiva of the eyelid (palpebral conjunctiva) and the conjunctiva covering the eyeball (bulbar conjunctiva). This condition typically results from chemical burns, severe infections, trauma, or cicatricial processes that cause conjunctival inflammation and subsequent scarring. The adhesions can restrict eye movement, cause diplopia, and interfere with eyelid closure. Surgical treatment involves lysis of adhesions with reconstruction using conjunctival or mucous membrane grafts to prevent recurrence and restore normal anatomy.
Usage
Usage note: Specify location (upper vs lower, medial vs lateral) and extent when documenting.
In Context
- "Extensive symblepharon formation limited extraocular movement in all directions of gaze." — Oculoplastic examination
- "Symblepharon lysis with amniotic membrane transplantation restored conjunctival fornix depth." — Reconstructive surgical note