Outcome of different techniques of pterygium excision with conjunctival autografting in pediatric population: Our experience in central India

Abstract

Aim: To analyze surgical outcome of pterygium excision with conjunctival autografting in pediatric population <16 years. Settings and Design: Retrospective case series. Materials and Methods: A case sheet review of 145 patients (167 eyes) aged <16 years consecutively presented with pterygium from April 2008 to August 2014 in the single center was done. Twenty-six eyes of 25 children who underwent pterygium excision with conjunctival autograft were analyzed. Different techniques used to secure conjunctival autograft in a position were multiple interrupted 8-0 vicryl sutures, single 8-0 vicryl suture in the center of graft and sutureless glue free. Outcome measures were a failure of surgery and recurrence. Results: Of the total 167 eyes, 26 eyes of 25 children, mean age 13.07 +- 3.08 years (range 7-16 years) were managed surgically with pterygium excision and conjunctival autograft. The rest of the patients were managed conservatively. In 18 eyes, the graft was secured with multiple sutures, in 6 eyes with a single suture, whereas in 2 eyes, sutureless glue-free graft opposition was done. Mean follow-up was 8.03 months. No case of graft retraction, graft dehiscence or graft displacement was found. Recurrence occurred in 6 eyes and managed surgically. Conclusions: Occurrence of pterygium is not uncommon in the pediatric population. A single suture or sutureless glue-free technique may be good alternative for securing conjunctival autograft after pterygium excision in children.