Pterygium
Understanding Pterygium
A pterygium is a benign (noncancerous) tissue growth extending from the nasal side of the eye across the sclera towards the cornea. These growths are common among people who spend a lot of time outdoors, particularly in dusty, dry climates.
Pterygium Removal
Recent innovations in pterygium surgery, such as conjunctival autografting and amniotic membrane transplantation, have made the recurrence rate of pterygium extremely low - well below 10%. The eye is anesthetized, the pterygium is removed, basal sclera and tenon's fascia are gently scraped off. Conjunctiva and amnion are placed over the wound as it heals, and the anti-inflammatory effects of the amniotic membrane allow the eye to heal quickly and effectively.
FAQs
Q: When should I have a pterygium removed?
AThis decision rests solely with the patient. If you find pterygium unsightly, then we can remove it for aesthetic purposes only. Sometimes, larger pterygia will grow near enough the pupil to occlude vision. Most patients would opt to have their pterygium removed at this point.
Q: Is pterygium removal painful?
AUsing local anesthetics, patients generally feel no pain, but will feel some pressure and movement during the procedure. Postoperatively it is normal to feel a mild foreign body sensation, but pain is rarely associated with this procedure.
Q: Will a pterygium grow back?
APossibly. Pterygium surgery has a fair chance of recurrence, but our surgical technique lowers the rate of recurrence for pterygium to less than 10%. If this happens, then the surgery can be performed again.
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