Tuck-In Tenon Patch Graft in Corneal Perforation

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Corneal perforation poses a significant threat to vision.
• Effective management of sterile corneal perforations (3-5 mm) is crucial.
• Autologous grafts offer potential advantages in corneal repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of tuck-in tenon patch graft (TPG) for corneal perforations up to 5 mm.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of TPG in managing sterile corneal defects.
• To determine the healing rate and visual acuity improvement following TPG.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-one patients with sterile corneal perforations (3-5 mm) underwent autologous TPG.
• Surgical technique involved freshening edges, creating a stromal pocket, tucking the tenon graft, and securing with glue or sutures.
• Primary outcome measure was the percentage of cases achieving epithelial healing.

Main Results:

• The mean age of patients was 52.3 years; common etiologies included neurotrophic keratitis and trauma.
• Epithelial healing occurred at a mean of 25.7 days, with 87.1% of cases healing successfully.
• Best-corrected visual acuity improved significantly (P ≤ 0.01) at 4 weeks post-surgery.

Conclusions:

• Tuck-in tenon patch graft (TPG) is a safe, simple, and cost-effective method for managing corneal perforations.
• The autologous nature, affordability, and availability of TPG are key advantages.
• TPG demonstrates high success rates in achieving corneal healing and visual recovery.