[Recurrent pterygium: removal and plastic procedure with the use of amniotic membrane: a case history]

Pterygium is the primitive degenerative and hyperplastic pathology of the conjunctiva. The origin and nature of the primary pterygium lesion is still not fully understood. Surgery is used as a treatment for primary and recurrent pterygium. The surgical techniques applied range from simple surgical removal to complex procedures comprising the treatment of the optical zone and the repair of the conjunctiva. Conjunctival reconstruction may be carried out with free graft of the amniotic membrane.

The paper presents a case history of a patient with 18-fold pterygium removal during the period of last 6 years. The mean recurrence time during the last 2 years ranged between 2-3 months. The pterygium was again removed, and conjunctivoplasty was performed using amniotic membrane. The paper presents the steps of the surgery and the patient's postoperative course. The clinical state and subjective symptoms improved in the postoperative period. The follow-up time was 6 months.

The amniotic membrane graft for pterygium surgery is useful for recurrent pterygium in achieving a lower recurrence rate, quicker rehabilitation and agreeable cosmetic result.