# Meibomian Cyst (Chalazion) Incision & Drainage

## Overview

This module describes how to incise and drain a Meibomian cyst (chalazion).

## Indications

## Contraindications

## Patient information and consent

Always verify your patient’s identity and obtain informed consent before proceeding.

### How do I explain this procedure?

“There is a small swelling on your eyelid because of a blocked gland. We call this a Meibomian cyst. It is necessary to remove it because it can get bigger or become infected.”

### What can my patient expect?

“I will place drops in your eye to numb the eyeball and then put a small injection in the eyelid to numb the eyelid. After that I will turn your eyelid inside out, which will not be painful and not too uncomfortable. I will then place an instrument to shield your eye and make a small cut in the eyelid to drain the cyst.”

### What is my patient’s role?

“Let me know if you have any allergies, a heart condition, or a bleeding tendency, or use blood thinners. Fearing blood or needles is normal, but tell me if you have fainted from it. Please look up while I instil the drops and while I put the injection into the eyelid. After that, please try to remain very still during this procedure.”

## Preparation

###

### Documentation

### Equipment

## Site & Positioning

The patient can be seated in front of you, facing forward with the head preferable against the wall, but it is easier and safer if the patient is lying on a bed facing the ceiling. Always position good lighting on the site, and

magnification

magnification

Use a magnifier, magnifier with light or a loupe. If not available, one can use a pair of +2:00 reading glasses. Readers are useful because it leaves your hands free to perform the procedure.

can be useful.

## Procedure

Follow medical asepsis with sterile gloves.

## Troubleshooting

The patient feels pain from the clamp.

More infiltration of local anaesthetic is required.

I do not have a chalazion clamp.

Continue conservative treatment until one can be procured, or refer the patient on conservative treatment.

## Risks

## References