Pterygium excision and conjunctival mini-autograft: preliminary report

Pterygium excision is often followed by recurrence that may be more severe than the initial lesion. This study evaluated the efficacy of conjunctival mini-autograft following surgical excision of pterygium.

Eight patients underwent pterygium excision with a conjunctival mini-autograft. All patients had decreased visual acuity secondary to involvement of the central cornea by the pterygium. Following the excision, dissection of a conjunctival mini-autograft was performed. The mini-autograft was then transposed to the area of excision and secured in place with interrupted Vicryl and a few nylon sutures. Follow-up periods ranged from 5 to 9 years.

All eyes healed with no post-operative complications and no recurrences of the pterygium in any patient up to a maximum follow-up period of 9 years 10 months.

Conjunctival mini-autograft with excision of the pterygium is an effective procedure for the surgical management of pterygium.