Advanced Pterygium Excision

ADVANCED PTERYGIUM EXCISION

Advanced pterygium excision with conjunctival autograft, amniotic membrane transplantation, and fibrin glue is a modern, evidence-based surgical treatment for pterygium, a fleshy growth that extends from the white part of the eye toward the cornea. This advanced technique removes the abnormal tissue and reconstructs the eye surface using healthy conjunctiva and biologic membrane support. As a result, it lowers recurrence risk, improves comfort, and promotes faster healing.

Because pterygium can cause redness, irritation, blurred vision, and cosmetic concerns, early and definitive treatment often improves both visual quality and eye appearance. Therefore, this combined approach focuses on safety, stability, and long-term results.

HOW THE PROCEDURE WORKS

First, the surgeon carefully removes the pterygium tissue from the cornea and sclera. Next, a thin graft of the patient’s own healthy conjunctiva gets placed over the exposed area. In addition, an amniotic membrane layer may be applied to enhance surface healing and reduce inflammation. Then, fibrin glue secures the graft and membrane without or with minimal sutures.

Because fibrin glue reduces tissue trauma and operating time, patients usually experience less discomfort compared with traditional stitch-only methods. Moreover, the graft acts like a protective patch, which helps restore a smooth and stable ocular surface.

KEY BENEFITS

This advanced multi-step technique offers several clinically supported advantages. For example, published studies and meta-analyses show lower recurrence rates when surgeons use conjunctival autografts and tissue adhesives compared with bare sclera excision alone.

Key benefits include:

1. Lower risk of pterygium recurrence
2. Faster surface healing and recovery
3. Less postoperative discomfort
4. Reduced inflammation and scarring
5. Improved cosmetic appearance

WHO MAY BENEFIT

This procedure suits patients with progressive, symptomatic, or visually significant pterygium. In particular, it helps those with persistent redness, foreign body sensation, induced astigmatism, or growth threatening the visual axis. Likewise, it benefits patients with recurrent pterygium after a prior surgery.

However, the surgeon evaluates each case individually. Therefore, ocular surface health, tear status, and pterygium size and location guide the final treatment plan.

RECOVERY AND AFTERCARE

After surgery, most patients go home the same day. Typically, doctors prescribe antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to support healing and prevent infection. Then, follow-up visits monitor graft position and surface recovery.

Although mild redness and irritation can occur at first, vision usually stabilizes over the following weeks. Meanwhile, strict drop compliance and eye protection significantly improve outcomes.

SAFETY AND EVIDENCE BASIS

This advanced pterygium surgery technique follows widely accepted ophthalmic practice patterns and peer-reviewed evidence. When performed by an experienced surgeon using proper patient selection and sterile technique, it provides a safe and effective solution for problematic pterygium while aiming to minimize recurrence and maximize long-term comfort.