General Information
DEFINITION--Removal of a pterygium, an abnormal tissue that grows from the edge
of the eye and extends to attach to the cornea.
BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Eye; cornea; membrane lining eyelid (conjunctiva).
REASONS FOR SURGERY
- Restoration of normal vision.
- Improved appearance.
SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH--None expected.
What To Expect
WHO OPERATES--Ophthalmologist.
WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital or outpatient surgical facility.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
- Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; complete eye examination.
- After surgery: Complete eye examination.
ANESTHESIA
- Local anesthesia by topical application.
- Local anesthesia by injection.
DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION
- An incision is made in the cornea around the pterygium.
- The pterygium is cut and brought upward, clear of the cornea.
- The lower edge of the pterygium is cut free and the entire pterygium is removed.
- Open areas in the membrane covering the eye are closed with fine sutures, which usually
can be removed about 1 week after surgery.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Surgical-wound infection.
- Recurrence of the pterygium.
AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--0 to 1 day.
PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 3
weeks for recovery from surgery.
Postoperative Care
GENERAL MEASURES---Beginning 24 hours after surgery, apply warm compresses to
the eye to relieve discomfort. Do this for 10 to 15 minutes each hour as long as
discomfort continues.
† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, to relieve
minor pain.
† To help recovery and aid your well--
being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.
- Avoid vigorous exercise for 3 weeks after surgery. > Wear sunglasses when outside.
> Resume driving about 1 week after returning home.
DIET---No special diet.
Call Your Doctor If
† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.
- Vision changes.
- You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill
feeling and fever.
- New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
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