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Conjunctival autograft for pterygium surgery: how well does it prevent recurrence?
R S Figueiredo1, E J Cohen, J A Gomes
1Cornea Service and Research Department, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107-5598, USA.
Ophthalmic Surgery and Lasers
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Conjunctival autografts significantly reduce pterygium recurrence after surgery compared to simple excision. Younger patients (≤50 years) had higher recurrence rates regardless of surgical method.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Techniques
- Ocular Surface Disease
Background:
- Pterygium is a common ocular surface condition.
- Surgical management aims to remove the pterygium and prevent recurrence.
- Conjunctival autografting is a surgical technique used for pterygium excision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of conjunctival autografting versus simple excision for pterygium surgery.
- To compare recurrence rates between primary and recurrent pterygium cases.
- To identify patient factors associated with pterygium recurrence.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 94 consecutive pterygium surgeries (1984-1993).
- Analysis of primary and recurrent pterygia separately.
- Kaplan-Meier survival analysis to determine recurrence rates.
Main Results:
- Conjunctival autografts had a 1-year recurrence rate of 16% versus 40% for simple excision in primary pterygia (P=.031).
- Younger patients (≤50 years) showed a higher likelihood of recurrence (P=.029).
- For recurrent pterygia, conjunctival grafting yielded a 1-year recurrence rate of 25% with no serious complications.
Conclusions:
- Conjunctival autografting is more effective than simple excision in reducing primary pterygium recurrence.
- Age is a significant factor influencing pterygium recurrence post-surgery.
- Conjunctival grafting is a safe and effective option for both primary and recurrent pterygia.