Sensory Changes in the Ocular Surface After Pterygium Removal

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Ocular Surface Research

Background:

• Pterygium surgery using conjunctival autografts is a common procedure.
• Understanding the impact of surgery on ocular surface sensation is crucial for patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure changes in ocular surface sensation after pterygium surgery with a conjunctival autograft.
• To evaluate corneal and conjunctival sensitivity at various time points postoperatively.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, interventional study involving patients with nasal primary pterygium.
• Sensation measured using the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer on the cornea and conjunctiva.
• Testing conducted preoperatively and at 2 weeks, 2 months, and 4 months postoperatively.

Main Results:

• Corneal sensation returned to normal within 4 months post-surgery.
• Conjunctival sensation showed significant reduction in the inferior region at 2 months.
• Conjunctival sensation became hyperesthetic in superior and inferior areas by 4 months postoperatively.

Conclusions:

• Pterygium surgery with conjunctival autograft results in conjunctival hyperesthesia at graft sites.
• Potential explanations include healing processes, sensory input alterations, and tear film changes.
• Ocular surface epitheliopathy may also contribute to altered sensation.