Detection of corneal epithelial defect through amniotic membrane patch by fluorescein

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Amniotic membrane transplantation is a valuable surgical technique for managing various ocular surface diseases.
• Assessing corneal epithelial healing through an amniotic membrane graft can be challenging with standard examination methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of fluorescein dye in visualizing corneal epithelial defects beneath an amniotic membrane patch.
• To demonstrate the diagnostic value of fluorescein staining in post-amniotic membrane graft procedures.

Main Methods:

• Four patients with conditions requiring amniotic membrane grafting (bullous keratopathy, limbal deficiency, chemical burn) were included.
• Postoperative slit-lamp biomicroscopy was performed with and without fluorescein staining to assess epithelial integrity.

Main Results:

• Corneal epithelial defects were not discernible via standard biomicroscopy through the amniotic membrane.
• Fluorescein staining, particularly after saline rinsing, successfully identified epithelial defects in all four cases.

Conclusions:

• Fluorescein staining is a crucial tool for monitoring epithelial healing in patients treated with amniotic membrane patches.
• This technique helps prevent premature removal of the amniotic membrane, optimizing treatment for persistent corneal epithelial defects.