Beyond common corneal transplants and corrective surgeries, there are other specialised procedures that address unique corneal issues, injuries, or conditions.
Pterygium surgery
Pterygium excision with conjunctival autograft is a surgical procedure designed to remove a pterygium—a benign growth on the surface of the eye that can cause irritation and vision issues. During the surgery, the pterygium is carefully excised, and a graft of healthy conjunctival tissue from the patient’s own eye is used to cover the area where the pterygium was removed. This technique helps to reduce the risk of recurrence and promotes faster healing.
The use of the patient’s own tissue minimises the risk of rejection and supports better long-term outcomes. The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthetic on an outpatient basis with a relatively quick recovery time, making it an effective solution for managing pterygium.
Superficial keratectomy
Superficial keratectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at removing the outer layers of the cornea to treat conditions such as recurrent corneal erosion, superficial corneal dystrophies, or certain types of corneal scarring. During the procedure, the damaged or diseased surface layers of the cornea are carefully removed to promote healing and restore corneal clarity.
This technique can help alleviate symptoms such as pain, blurred vision, and irritation by allowing healthier corneal tissue to regenerate. Superficial keratectomy is typically performed on an outpatient basis and involves a relatively straightforward recovery, with many patients experiencing significant improvement in symptoms and vision.
