AIM: To assess the effect and safety of laser ablation and electrolysis treatment in treating trichiasis.

METHODS:Fifty cases(76 eyes)of trichiasis patients were divided into two groups and treated with laser ablation and electrolysis treatment. Post-operative stimulation signs, complications and recurrence were recorded in following 6mo.

RESULTS: The first-time success rate of laser ablation was 81%, recurrence rate 19% and total success rate 94%. The first-time success rate of electrolysis treatment was 49%, recurrence rate 63% and total success rate 72%. There were significant differences in the rate of first-time success, recurrence and total success between two groups(P<0.05). There were fewer symptoms, complications and no scar in patients with laser ablation. After electrolysis treatment, scar occurred in 5 eyes.

CONCLUSION: Laser ablation in treating trichiasis has the advantage of fewer symptoms, complications and high curative rate, and it is an effective and safe clinical promotion.