Management of Ocular Surface Inflammation with Persistent Epithelial Defects Using a Sutureless Human Amniotic...

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Ocular surface diseases pose significant challenges to vision and require effective treatment options.
• Sutureless human amniotic membrane dehydrated matrix (HAMDM) offers a novel approach to managing these conditions.
• Objective assessment tools are crucial for evaluating treatment efficacy in ocular surface disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of sutureless human amniotic membrane dehydrated matrix (HAMDM) in managing diverse ocular surface conditions.
• To assess the efficacy of HAMDM using a digital ocular surface disease assessment tool.
• To report on epithelial defect resolution, ocular surface inflammation, and visual acuity post-HAMDM treatment.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study conducted at two UK NHS Trusts involving patients with various ocular surface diseases.
• Treatment involved the application of sutureless HAMDM.
• Ocular surface inflammation and epithelial defect size were quantitatively assessed using AOS digital imaging software before and after treatment.

Main Results:

• 47 HAMDM applications were assessed in 46 patients across conditions including limbal stem-cell deficiency and persistent epithelial defects.
• Complete epithelial defect healing was observed in 63% of eyes, with an average healing rate of 0.36 mm²/day.
• Ocular surface inflammation remained stable, and visual acuity was stable in 61% and improved in 26% of patients.

Conclusions:

• Sutureless HAMDM is an effective, quick, and non-surgical treatment for a range of ocular surface diseases.
• Digital imaging software provides a quantitative method for assessing treatment outcomes, including epithelial defect size and inflammation.
• HAMDM demonstrates potential for improving patient outcomes in ocular surface disease management.