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Effectiveness of intraoperative mitomycin C in the treatment of recurrent pterygium
L Mastropasqua1, P Carpineto, M Ciancaglini
1Institute of Ophthalmology, University G. D'Annunzio, Chieti, Italy.
Abstract:
The effectiveness of intraoperative administration of mitomycin C and the occurrence of postoperative complications have been evaluated in 30 white patients with one recurrence of pterygium. The authors employed the 'bare-sclera technique' and, intraoperatively, placed in the episcleral space for 3 min a sterile sponge soaked in a 4% mitomycin C solution. The control group (30 patients with one recurrent pterygium) underwent only surgical excision. Statistical analysis performed using the chi-square test showed a significant (p = 0.024) reduction of recurrences of pterygium in the group treated intraoperatively with mitomycin C. No heavy side effects occurred during the follow-up period. Mitomycin C, administered intraoperatively, may be considered an effective treatment to improve the success rate after surgical excision.
Insights
Intraoperative mitomycin C (MMC) significantly reduced pterygium recurrence after surgery. This study found MMC effective with no major side effects, improving surgical success rates for recurrent pterygium.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Pterygium recurrence is common after surgical excision.
- Recurrent pterygium poses challenges in achieving successful surgical outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of intraoperative mitomycin C (MMC) in preventing pterygium recurrence.
- To assess postoperative complications associated with intraoperative MMC use.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving 60 patients with recurrent pterygium.
- The 'bare-sclera technique' combined with intraoperative MMC application in the episcleral space for 3 minutes.
- A control group underwent surgical excision alone.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant reduction (p = 0.024) in pterygium recurrence was observed in the MMC-treated group.
- No severe adverse events were reported during the follow-up period.
- Intraoperative MMC enhanced the success rate of pterygium excision.
Conclusions:
- Intraoperative mitomycin C is an effective adjunct to surgical excision for preventing pterygium recurrence.
- MMC administration offers a favorable safety profile for managing recurrent pterygium.
