What is it
Pterygium and Pinguecula
These are abnormal growths of tissue on the ocular surface due to the effect of ultraviolet (UVB) rays. They are triangular in shape and extend from the conjunctiva to the cornea. They can cause irritation, a foreign body sensation and even impede vision. In the case of pterygium, surgical intervention is usually indicated, unlike pinguecula, a minor variant of this pathology.
Treatment of pterygium and pinguecula
In the case of pinguecula, the most common treatment for this visual condition is the use of anti-inflammatory and lubricating eye drops.
In the case of pterygium, the ophthalmologist must evaluate how the growth of this tissue evolves in the eye, before considering the surgical option. When it is in a very incipient phase, treatments are usually used to reduce inflammation and lubricants that improve the patient’s sensations.
If the pterygium grows until it invades the pupil area, compromising the patient’s vision, and causing aesthetic discomfort, surgery to remove it is the most indicated solution.
The specialist in corneal and ocular surface surgery is in charge of carrying out the treatment of pterygium, which has advanced significantly in recent years, reducing the probability of it reappearing (recurrence).
The surgery consists of completely removing this pathological tissue and replacing it with a conjunctival autograft (transplantation of the conjunctiva itself), fixing it in its place with absorbable sutures, or even with biological adhesives that eliminate the need for these sutures.
Pterygium surgery is a painless, outpatient treatment that is performed under local anesthesia. After a few weeks, the appearance of the eye returns to normal.
Other pathologies
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