Pterygium Surgery with Conjunctival Autograft Fixation Using Bipolar Electrocauterization

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Pterygium is a common ocular condition requiring surgical intervention.
• Conjunctival autografts are a standard method for pterygium excision to reduce recurrence.
• Secure graft fixation is crucial for successful outcomes in pterygium surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of using bipolar electrocautery for conjunctival autograft fixation in pterygium surgery.
• To assess recurrence and complication rates associated with this surgical technique.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective case series involving 56 eyes of 37 patients undergoing pterygium surgery.
• Conjunctival autografts harvested from the inferior bulbar conjunctiva were fixated using bipolar electrocautery.
• Follow-up exceeded 12 months to monitor for pterygium recurrence and complications.

Main Results:

• The mean follow-up period was 41 months.
• No intraoperative complications were reported.
• A low recurrence rate of 5.36% (3 eyes) was observed, with no significant postoperative complications like graft detachment or granulomas.

Conclusions:

• Conjunctival autograft fixation with bipolar electrocautery is a rapid, cost-effective, and safe procedure for pterygium surgery.
• This technique demonstrates a favorable safety profile and low recurrence rates, making it suitable for most pterygium cases.