Bovine Pericardium (Ocuguard) wrap for Hydroxyapatite implants

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: To evaluate bovine pericardium (Ocuaguard) as a wrapping material for hydroxyapatite implants in patients undergoing primary enucleation for uveal melanoma. Methods: All patients who had enucleation as a primary treatment for uveal melanoma between July 1998 and January 2003 were included in the study. Any patient with less than three months follow up was excluded. Enucleation was performed under general anaesthesia followed by insertion of hydroxyapatite implants wrapped in bovine pericardium (Ocuguard, Bio–Vascular Inc, Minnesota, USA marketed in UK by John Weiss). The recti muscles were sutured into the windows cut into the Ocuguard. The tenon’s capsule and conjunctiva were closed in two layers. A conformer was inserted at one week and artificial eye at 2–3 months. The patients were followed up regularly and assessed for cosmetic result, exposure of implant and need for further surgical procedures. Results: 116 patients (69 males and 47 females) were included in the study. Median age of diagnosis was 61.5 years (range 14–88 years). Surgery was performed by three surgeons. Median follow up was 2.9 years (range 8 months to 5.3 years). Only four patients developed (3.4 %) developed postoperative complications of wound dehiscence. In one patient the wound had to be resutured and in three exchange of implant had to be performed. The overall cosmetic result was excellent in 114 patients (98%). The rate of postoperative complications compared favorably with published data on other wrapping material/ implants. Conclusions: Ocuguard is a safe wrapping material for hydroxyapatite orbital impants in patients undergoing enucleation for uveal melanoma.

Keywords: melanoma • uvea • tumors