Variations in the technique for autologous limbal transplantation

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Corneal Surgery

Background:

• Unilateral total limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) impairs corneal health.
• Restoring the limbal stem cell niche is crucial for ocular surface reconstruction.

Observation:

• Two patients with unilateral total LSCD were treated.
• The treatment involved a single block limbal autograft, amniotic membrane transplantation, and sequential conjunctival epitheliectomy.

Findings:

• A single block limbal autograft combined with amniotic membrane transplantation effectively restored a stable corneal surface in both patients.
• One patient required sequential sectoral conjunctival epitheliectomy to address anomalous epithelial remnants.

Implications:

• This combined surgical approach shows promise for treating unilateral total LSCD.
• Sequential conjunctival epitheliectomy may be a valuable adjunct for managing residual conjunctival abnormalities post-transplant.