Abstract
Purpose: :
To evaluate a technique of limbal reconstruction for pterygium surgery using two flaps of adjacent limbal conjunctiva
Methods: :
A prospective non comparative case series in 100 pterygium surgeries, comparing the results of two different surgeons ( 2nd year resident vs Instructor) Pterygium resection is performed with topical anesthesia, once resected, two adjacent flaps of conjunctiva with limbus are dissected and then limbus is reassembled. Limbal reconstruction was evaluated with impression cytology
Results: :
Complete reconstruction of the limbus was documented with impression cytology. A recurrence rate of 4% was observed with this technique (follow up from 3 to 12 months average of 6 months). There was minimal difference between surgeons (3% vs 4%). No other complications were observed. A lost of limbal anatomy with mucous hyperplasia and squamous metaplasia was documented in this cases in comparison with successful cases. Median surgery time was 10 minutes (ranging from 8 to 20 minutes). Minimal pain was reported by patients
Conclusions: :
Adjacent limbal stem transplantation is a safe and simple technique for pterygium surgery, complete reconstruction of limbus and minimal rate of recurrence was observed.
Keywords: cornea: clinical science • Pterygium • transplantation