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Intraoperative application of topical mitomycin C 0.05% for pterygium surgery
Julio A Rodriguez1, Cristina Ferrari, Gustavo A Hernández
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, Medical Sciences Campus, Rio Piedras, PR.
Background:
Pterygium recurrence is a common problem encountered by ophthalmic surgeons. Several methods have been suggested to avoid these recurrences. We studied the recurrence rate of pterygium after administration of a single intraoperative dosage of topical mitomycin C 0.05%.
Methods:
A retrospective analysis of fifty eyes in forty-nine patients who underwent pterygium excision by the same surgeon using intraoperative topical mitomycin C during the years 2002--2003. Mitomycin concentration was 0.05% applied to pterygium and adjacent areas after undermining and separation from sclera but prior to excision for three minutes. Postoperative follow up time was 12 months.
Results:
The pterygium recurred in 4 (8%) eyes. Another four eyes (8%) had a cosmetically acceptable recurrence of < 2.0 mm. The only complication was a corneal dellen in one eye.
Conclusion:
Intraoperative administration of mitomycin C at 0.05% is safe and effective in preventing pterygium recurrences.
Insights
Topical mitomycin C (0.05%) effectively prevents pterygium recurrence. This study found a low recurrence rate, demonstrating the safety and efficacy of intraoperative mitomycin C in ophthalmic surgery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Pterygium recurrence is a frequent challenge for ophthalmic surgeons.
- Various strategies exist to mitigate pterygium regrowth.
- This study investigates the efficacy of topical mitomycin C in preventing recurrence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the recurrence rate of pterygium following a single intraoperative dose of topical mitomycin C (0.05%).
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 50 eyes from 49 patients undergoing pterygium excision.
- Intraoperative topical mitomycin C (0.05%) applied for 3 minutes post-dissection, pre-excision.
- 12-month postoperative follow-up period.
Main Results:
- Pterygium recurrence observed in 8% of eyes (4/50).
- An additional 8% of eyes (4/50) showed cosmetically acceptable recurrence (<2.0 mm).
- One case of corneal dellen was the sole complication.
Conclusions:
- Intraoperative topical mitomycin C at 0.05% is a safe and effective method for preventing pterygium recurrence.
- The low complication rate supports its clinical utility.