Ectropion is where the lower eyelid turns outwards. This may lead to complications with exposure which can predispose to infections/erosions. This can be treated surgically. Following the procedure which can be carried out under local anaesthetic chloramphenicol ointment is typically used on the wounds/sutures for 2 weeks to prevent infection.
Entropion is where the eyelids can turn in and the eyelashes may rub/irritate the cornea. This can also lead to infections/ulcers. It can be treated surgically under a local anaesthetic. Chloramphenicol is again used for the wounds post-operatively.
Who to refer:
Please see Lothian GP and optometry ophthalmology referral pathway.
Urgency of the condition for details on how soon patients should receive an appointment.
Patients who present with a problem with their only seeing eye should be advised to see an optician/ophthalmologist for review.
How to refer:
We require a referral letter for EVERY patient.
The preferred referral process is via SCI Gateway. If sending/forwarding a referral via SCI gateway please include past medical history, allergies and medications
If you do not have access to fax or SCI Gateway e.g. if you have arranged an appointment out of hours please send a written referral letter with the patient to bring to their appointment.
Only if SCI Gateway is unavailable should a letter be typed or handwritten. Please write legibly and include your examination findings.
If you have arranged an appointment in the acute referral clinic and you are referring from within another hospital in Lothian please use TRAK to type the referral letter.
