Overview

A pterygium is composed of conjunctival tissue that, if large enough, will interfere with sight or simply be annoying to the patient. 

The main driver to surgery is corneal astigmatism created by the encroaching pterygium.

Treatment

A pterygium will need to be surgically removed. Most patients will receive a local anaesthesia in the form of eye drops and possibly an injection near the eye to numb the area. A small cut will be made in the conjunctiva, and the pterygium lifted upwards, clear of the cornea. Reducing the risk of regrowth requires a conjunctival autograft.

Recovery

Patients will notice discomfort for several days after surgery. They will be prescribed antibiotic and steroid eye drops or ointment. Pain relief may also be needed, usually paracetamol or codeine.

Outcomes

Following surgery with conjunctival flap and autograft, the re-growth rate is less than 5%. After surgery, the eye is treated for one month with topical broad spectrum antibiotics and Prednefrin Forte QID.