Pterygium Removal

Why is a pterygium removal done?

A pterygium removal is a surgical procedure done to remove pterygium, the fleshy tissue that grows in a triangular shape from the conjunctiva over the cornea, causing blockage of vision and eye irritation.

by using a laser that reshapes the cornea in order to increase the focusing power. Vision problems arise due to change in the shape of the cornea leading to poor focusing of light by the eye, resulting in blurred or distorted vision

How is pterygium removed?

The pterygium is carefully dissected away after which the ophthalmologist may either

• remove some of the conjunctiva and suture it into the bed of the removed pterygium or
• apply an antimetabolite such as mitomycin to the site in order to prevent regrowth.