Pterygium
A pterygium is a small growth of fibrovascular tissue that grows between the cornea and the conjunctiva of the eye. The tissue is pink and white in color. The first signs of pterygium are not usually visible to the naked eye. As the pterygium grows, it presses on the surface of the eye causing blurred vision, light sensitivity, and redness. In the early stages of the disease, the pterygium is treated with topical medications. However, if the pterygium does not respond to the medication, it is removed surgically. The removal is performed by excising the abnormal tissue.
Surgical procedures for pterygium
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Surgical excision - Here pterygium tissue is simply excised and removed and area is left as it is. In this type of surgery chances of recurrence are high.
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Surgical Excision with Conjunctival Autografting - Here after excising and removing pterygium tissue, the area is covered with a thin conjunctival membrane. In this surgery, recurrence rate is very low.
FAQs - Pterygium (Nakhuna)
Q1. What causes a pterygium?
Pterygium is a small growth of fibrovascular tissue that grows between the cornea and the conjunctiva of the eye.
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Q2. What are some symptoms of a pterygium?
The most common symptom of a pterygium is a white or greyish-white spot on the cornea.
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Q3. How do I treat a pterygium?
A pterygium can be removed with surgery. It's important to remove the pterygium before it causes problems for your eyes.
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Q4. What do I need to know about the surgery?
During the surgery, the doctor will use a scalpel to cut away the pterygium. Then, the doctor will use a laser to burn away the remaining part of the pterygium.
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Q5. What will happen after surgery?
After surgery, you'll have bandages over your eyes for a few days. You'll also have drops in your eyes to help reduce inflammation.