Reconstruction of the periocular mucous membrane by autologous conjunctival transplantation

We have extended the concept of autologous conjunctival transplantation for corneal resurfacing as recommended by Thoft to reconstruction in 14 patients with unilateral abnormalities of the bulbar and palpebral conjunctiva caused by alkali burns (2), irradiation (2), neoplasms (3), degenerative diseases (5), trauma (1), and developmental anomalies (1). Large, free conjunctival grafts from bulbar and forniceal donor sites were used. No complications have been noted at the recipient or donor sites. Grafts of normal conjunctiva provided intact basement membrane, goblet cells, and epithelium that help restore normal ocular and lid surfaces. The use of free conjunctival grafts provides significant advantage over the use of buccal mucous membrane grafts. The techniques and results of our experience with free conjunctival grafts in 14 patients are discussed.