Comparison between Limbal Stem Cell versus Dry Amniotic Membrane Transplantation in Treatment of Primary Pterygium

Abstract

Background: Pterygium is a degenerative disorder of the conjunctiva which leads to encroachment of bulbar conjunctiva onto the cornea. This invasion causes irritation of ocular surface, irregular astigmatism and loss of visual acuity.surgical treatment of pterygium is directrd towards excision, prevention of recurrence and restoration of ocular surface integrity. A myriad of techniques have been described for achieving these goals. Tha main complication of these procedures is the recurrence rate, which has been estimated as high as 30%_70%. Purpose: to compare the efficiency of limbal stem cell transplantation versus dry amniotic membrane transplantation in treatment of pterygium. Patients and methods: The study carried out at ophthalmology department, Ain shams university and included 20 eyes which were classified into two groups; first group included 10 eyes of patients underwent pterygium excision with amniotic membrane transplantation. Second group included 10 eyes of patients underwent pterygium excision with limbal stem cell transplantation. Results: the mean follow up duration was 1-3 months in both groups. On comparing recurrence rate between the studied groups which occurred only in the first group in two eyes 20%, there is no statistically significant difference found between the studied groups as regard recurrence. But it was statistically significant better with limbal conjunctival autografting. Graft rejection was not detected in the two groups during follow up period. There was no statistically significant difference found between the studied groups as regard clinical stability and graft rejection. Conclusion: Limbal stem cell transplantation proved to be better than amniotic membrane transplantation in treatment of pterygium. As it is more effective in prevention of pterygium reccurence as well as it is of lower cost and better availability than amniotic membrane.