Application of the amniotic membrane in ocular surface pathology

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Human amniotic membrane (HAM) is a semi-transparent membrane utilized clinically for wound healing, particularly in burns and skin ulcers.
• Its application in ocular surface disorders dates back to 1940, demonstrating its potential for promoting epithelialization.
• Preserved HAM offers a viable option for treating various ocular surface pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of preserved human amniotic membrane implantation in treating diverse ocular surface disorders.
• To assess the outcomes of HAM implantation in patients with limbal stem cell deficiency, corneal ulcers, epithelial defects, corneal degeneration, and conjunctival tumors.

Main Methods:

• Amniotic membrane was obtained from elective Cesarean sections and cryopreserved at -80°C.
• HAM implantation was performed on 11 patients with conditions including limbal stem cell deficiency, persistent neurotrophic corneal ulcers, chronic epithelial defects, Salzmann's degeneration, and post-resection conjunctival tumors.
• Patient follow-up ranged from 2 to 6.5 months (mean = 4 months).

Main Results:

• Amniotic membrane reabsorption occurred between 3 and 5 weeks post-implantation in all patients.
• Complete epithelialization was observed within 1-2 weeks for conjunctival tumor resection cases, with minimal scarring.
• Complete corneal epithelialization and reduced inflammation were achieved in most cases (9 out of 11), except for two patients.

Conclusions:

• Implantation of preserved human amniotic membrane is effective in promoting ocular surface recovery.
• HAM facilitates healing in both corneal and conjunctival lesions, offering a therapeutic option for various ocular surface pathologies.
• The procedure aids in reducing inflammation and minimizing scarring, contributing to improved patient outcomes.