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Postoperative beta irradiation for control of pterygium
R A Smith1, S A Dzugan, P Kosko
1North Central Mississippi Regional Cancer Center, 1401 River Road, Greenwood, MS 38930, USA. dzugan@yahoo.com
Purpose:
The purpose of this retrospective analysis is to assess the effectiveness of postoperative irradiation with a strontium 90 (Sr-90) contact applicator in the prevention of recurrence of resected pterygia.
Methods And Materials:
Thirty five patients were treated with Sr-90 postoperative radiation therapy performed immediately after surgery. The dose of irradiation was 2500 cGy in five fractions using a standard Sr-90 applicator.
Results:
The local control rate was 94.6% in the first year after surgery. Pterygia eventually recurred in 5.8% of the 52 eyes treated. In our study primarily treated patients remained recurrence free, but recurrences developed in three eyes irradiated after multiple previous excisions. No patient developed conjunctival ulceration, damage to cornea, eye pain, cataract or any other serious complications.
Conclusions:
Postoperative irradiation was effective in preventing local recurrence after surgical removal of pterygium. In our experience, acute and late morbidity up to three years is nil. A very satisfactory dose/time/fractionation appears to be of 2500 cGy in 5 fractions starting immediately after surgical excision.