Abstract

Study Design: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the Hughes flap procedure on the tear film function and resultantly on the ocular surface in an Indian setting where the operating conditions differ significantly from the developed countries. Methods: The study included 20 patients in the age group from 18-75 years at the time of surgery. The patients were evaluated in the follow-up for the following parameters in the operated eye and the contralateral eye which served as a control. Subjective dry eye symptoms for each eye through a questionnaire – Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI). Corneal and conjunctival surface examination using fluorescein stain &grading according to the NEI workshop grading system. Results: Statistically significant differences were observed in the loss of meibomian glands (p < 0.001) between the lids. Conclusion: The Hughes flap procedure is better avoided in cases having ocular surface disorders.