Mechanisms and treatment strategies for postoperative complications of pterygium surgery
10.3980/j.issn.1672-5123.2025.10.02
- VernacularTitle:翼状胬肉手术后并发症的机制和治疗策略
- Author:
Huiling PAN
1
;
Shuangqing WU
1
Author Information
1. The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang Province, China; Xinchang County People's Hospital, Xinchang 312500, Zhejiang Province, China
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
pterygium;
postoperative complication;
recurrence;
granuloma;
scleral necrosis;
adjuvant therapy;
femtosecond laser-assisted pterygium surgery
- From:
International Eye Science
2025;25(10):1551-1559
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Pterygium, a common ocular surface disorder characterized by the abnormal growth of conjunctival tissue onto the cornea, often necessitates surgical excision as its primary treatment. While effective, pterygium surgery is frequently associated with a spectrum of postoperative complications that significantly impact patient prognosis and quality of life. This comprehensive review systematically analyzes the classification, underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, and associated risk factors of these complications, with a particular focus on less commonly explored entities such as postoperative granuloma(PPG), corneal dellen, and scleral necrosis, alongside the more prevalent issue of recurrence. We delineate these complications based on their temporal presentation(early, intermediate, and late), and provide an in-depth analysis of general and specific contributing factors, including surgical trauma, individual patient characteristics, surgical technique, and perioperative management. Furthermore, this review synthesizes advancements in preventive strategies and therapeutic interventions, encompassing refined surgical techniques [e.g., femtosecond laser-assisted pterygium surgery(FLAPS), pterygium extended removal followed by extended conjunctival transplant(P.E.R.F.E.C.T.)technique, Tissue Tuck technique], judicious application of adjuvant therapies [e.g., mitomycin C(MMC), 5-fluorouracil(5-FU), corticosteroids, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)agents], and optimized postoperative care protocols. By consolidating current evidence and identifying future research priorities, this review aims to provide ophthalmologists with a valuable theoretical foundation to guide individualized surgical planning, dynamic postoperative management, and ultimately minimize complications and improve patient satisfaction.
