The use of a radiofrequency unit for excisional biopsy of eyelid papillomas.

PURPOSE: To describe a technique for excisional biopsy of eyelid papillomatous lesions using a radiofrequency (RF) unit.

METHOD: In this prospective, interventional case series, 64 patients with eyelid papillomatous lesions underwent excisional biopsy using an RF unit.

RESULTS: The upper eyelid was involved in 34.5% and the lower eyelid was involved in 62.5% of cases, with 3% having lesions on both eyelids. Surgery was performed with no intraoperative or postoperative bleeding, avoiding wound sutures and bandage and with very good cosmetic results. On histopathologic examination, 72% of these lesions were squamous papilloma. Reoperation was needed in 2 patients. Over-resection and notching of the eyelid margin happened in one patient but improved 3 months after surgery.

CONCLUSION: Use of an RF unit for excisional biopsy of eyelid papillomatous lesions is a safe and effective method.