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A pterygium is a pinkish, triangular-shaped
tissue growth on the cornea. Pterygium starts
as an area of redness and thickening of
the conjunctiva, usually on the inner aspect
of the white of the eye. In some cases,
the pterygium may extend across onto the
cornea, which is the clear front window
of the eye. Surgical removal is the only
definitive treatment available. Surgery
is required for:
- A cosmetic reason as
the tissue growth on the cornea is a cause
of cosmetic embarrassment.
- When the tissue
grows enough on cornea to interfere with
the vision either by distorting the cornea
or by extending over the pupil.
- When the
mass interferes with the movement of eye.
Pterygium usually has no symptoms, however
some pterygium become red and inflamed from
time to time and eye often become sore,
red, and gritty, especially with wind, smoke
or dust.
Pterygia are more common in sunny
climates and in the 20-40 age group. Scientists
do not know what causes pterygia to develop.
However, since people who have pterygia
usually have spent a significant time outdoors,
many doctors believe ultraviolet (UV) light
from the sun may e a factor. In areas where
sunlight is strong, wearing protective eyeglasses,
sunglasses, and/or hats with brims is suggested.
While some studies report a higher prevalence
of pterygia in men than in women, this may
reflect different rates of exposure to UV
light.
Pterygium surgery comprises of dissecting
the mass from the cornea and the excess
conjunctival tissue is excised in toto.
Because of the high recurrence rate of pterygia
there have been few advances in pterygium
surgery to reduce recurrence rate. They
are application of mitomycin over the bare
sclera, transplanting amniotic membrane
and limbal stem cell autologous transplantation.
Studies have proved that the most successful
option is to do an autologous transplantation.
In this procedure the limbal stem cells
from the same eye or in rare cases from
the other eye is taken and transplanted
on the sclera from where the pterygium is
excised. The graft is secured either by
self absorbing sutures or tissue glue, making
it a No Stitch Surgery.
We at our centre
have facility for all above mentioned options.
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