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Ocular surface reconstruction for thermal burns caused by fireworks
Jun Shimazaki1, Kenji Konomi, Shigeto Shimmura
1Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Dental College, Chiba, Japan. jun@eyebank.or.jp
Cornea
|December 24, 2005
Summary
Limbal stem cell transplantation with amniotic membrane transplantation successfully restored vision in eyes with severe firework injuries. Managing fibrosis and eyelid issues is crucial for visual rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Regenerative Medicine
- Ocular Surface Disease
Background:
- Severe ocular surface injuries from fireworks can lead to limbal stem cell dysfunction and conjunctival fibrosis.
- Traditional treatments often fall short in restoring vision and ocular surface integrity.
Observation:
- This study retrospectively analyzed six male patients (ages 9-26) with chronic firework-related ocular injuries.
- All patients presented with total limbal stem cell dysfunction and significant conjunctival fibrosis.
- Treatment involved limbal stem cell transplantation (allograft or autograft) combined with amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT).
Findings:
- Corneal epithelialization was achieved in 4 out of 6 eyes within a mean of 20.8 days post-treatment.
- After a mean follow-up of 36 months, all eyes showed reduced fibrosis.
- Optically clear corneas with improved visual acuity (20/100) were observed in 3 eyes; 4 eyes showed corneal-phenotype epithelium restoration.
Implications:
- Limbal stem cell transplantation combined with AMT offers a viable treatment option for severe firework-related ocular surface injuries.
- Successful visual rehabilitation hinges on effectively managing ocular surface fibrosis and associated eyelid abnormalities.
- This combined approach shows promise for improving both cosmetic and visual outcomes in challenging cases.