1880 Sismet Road Mississauga, ON L4W 1W9, Canada

Pterygium

What is a pterygium?

Pterygium is a fibrovascular tissue that extends from the tenons/conjunctiva layers of the eye and grows onto the surface of the cornea, the clear portion. It tends to occur more often in individuals exposed to higher levels of UV light, wind, and tropical weather. The tissue can sometimes become inflamed, requiring topical anti – inflammatories. More often, the pterygium will disrupt the normal tear film that bathes the surface of the eyes causing a foreign body sensation. Over years, this tissue may grow and extend onto the central cornea, blocking vision and causing refractive errors such as astigmatism. The progression and growth of a pterygium is highly variable. Most patients will not require surgical intervention in their lifetime, but some may.

What are the treatment options for pterygium?

Observation and monitoring for growth and symptoms.
Medical – treatment with topical anti-inflammatory drops and steroids.
Dry eye management ( Note: long term treatment with steroid drops can be associated with significant risks including glaucoma and cataract formation).
Surgical – excision of the pterygium.

When is surgery indicated?

Enlargement of pterygium toward visual axis.
Persistent irritation and inflammation requiring continuous use of anti-inflammatory/steroid drops.
Changes in corneal curvature causing increasing astigmatism.
Cosmetic issues that are bothersome.
Biopsy purposes for suspicious growth, pattern to rule out cancerous growth.

How is pterygium excision surgery performed?

The pterygium is excised and a conjunctival autograft is used to cover the surgical site in order to prevent regrowth of the pterygium. Conjunctival autograft means that the patient’s own conjunctiva is used. This conjunctiva can come from another part of the same eyeball surface or from the other eye.

OCC EYECARE CENTRE LOCATIONS

Our specialized team of doctors and state-of-the-art facility
are available at two convenient locations

1880 Sismet Road Mississauga,
ON L4W 1W9, Canada

+1 905-212-9482

2630 Rutherford Rd #105, Vaughan,
ON L4K 0H2, Canada

+1 (905) 212-9482

Buy the best eye products available!