Pterygium
Removal
What is a pterygium?
A pterygium is a growth of tissue on the surface of the eye, specifically on the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the clear, thin membrane that covers the white part of the eye (sclera) and lines the inside of the eyelids. A pterygium is often triangular in shape and typically starts from the inner corner of the eye and extends toward the cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye.
It's important to have any growth on the eye evaluated by an eye care professional. While pterygia are generally benign, a proper diagnosis and management plan can help prevent discomfort and potential complications. If a pterygium is causing significant symptoms or affecting vision, a discussion with Mr Panthagani about treatment options, including surgical removal, is recommended.
What are the key features?
Key characteristics of a pterygium include:
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Appearance: Pterygia are usually pinkish or fleshy in appearance and can vary in size. They may be small and unobtrusive, or they can grow larger and cover part of the cornea.
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Causes: The exact cause of pterygia is not fully understood, but they are often associated with chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, dry and dusty environments, and prolonged eye irritation. Genetic factors and certain occupations or outdoor activities may also contribute to their development.
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Symptoms: Small pterygia may not cause noticeable symptoms, but larger ones can cause considerable discomfort. Common symptoms include redness, irritation, itching, tearing, and a sensation of having a foreign object in the eye. In some cases, a pterygium can affect vision if it encroaches onto the cornea.
What are the treatment options available?
Mild cases of pterygium may be managed with lubricating eye drops and protective measures, such as wearing sunglasses with UV protection and avoiding eye irritation. If a pterygium is causing significant discomfort or affecting vision, surgical removal might be recommended.
Pterygium surgery involves removing the abnormal tissue growth. The procedure can be performed using various techniques, including excision and grafting. During excision, the pterygium is carefully removed from the surface of the eye. Grafting involves placing a small piece of healthy conjunctival tissue from a different part of the eye or a donor source to cover the area where the pterygium was removed. This helps reduce the likelihood of recurrence and promotes healing.
Pterygium can sometimes recur even after surgical removal. To reduce the risk of recurrence, protecting the eyes from UV light and irritation remains important after surgery.