Evaluation of Post-Surgical Astigmatism in Patients with Recurrent Pterygium Managed by Amniotic Membrane Graft

Background: Pterygium surgeries always give some amount of astigmatism to the eyes. The pathogenesis of pterygia is strongly correlated with UV light exposure, although environmental insults such as exposure to dust, wind, or other irritants causing chronic ocular inflammation may also be considered as factors. Until progressing on to the cornea, recurrence will first be observed in the conjunctiva. Repeat surgery, which is difficult, is associated with further scarring, and is prevented by treating the recurrent pterygium before the cornea gets involved. The operation of a recurrent pterygium should be stopped before it progresses to true recurrence to prevent repeated surgery.In this study we have managed the recurrent pterygium by Amniotic Membrane Graft and evaluated the amount of astigmatism in it. Similar study has not been conducted in the past. Objectives: To evaluate astigmatism pre-operatively, post-operatively, compare the pre-operative and post- operative astigmatism in recurrent pterygium managed by amniotic membrane graft, to evaluate and assess any post-surgical complications in recurrent pterygium surgeries and to compare astigmatism post-operatively in patients with temporal and nasal pterygium. Methodology:  After considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the study subjects in the case group will undergo ophthalmological examination which would include Lacrimal Sac syringing, Best Corrected Visual Acuity estimation, Slit lamp examination, Corneal Topography, Auto Refractometer and Subjective Refraction. The patients would be operated with Amniotic Membrane Graft and would be given Dexamethasone, Moxifloxacin and Carboxy Methyl Cellulose eye drops in the post-operative period. Patient follow-up will be conducted for astigmatism estimation on postoperative day 1, day 15, day 30 and day 60. Expected Results: The use of Amniotic Membrane Graft should reduce the incidence of astigmatism in recurrent pterygium.