Fresh human amniotic membrane A versatile treatment for ocular surface disease

Dr. Amit S.Nene; Dr. (Mrs.) B.S. Puzari; Dr. P. Bharali

Volume : V, Issue : IV, April - 2016

Fresh human amniotic membrane A versatile treatment for ocular surface disease

Dr. Amit S. Nene, Dr. Mrs. B. S. Puzari, Dr. P. Bharali

Abstract :

Background – Chronic ocular surface disorders, which can result in severe functional impairment, have been viewed for decades as untreatable diseases. Amniotic memane transplantation (AMT) is indicated for numerous ocular surface disorders, the spectrum of which has been expanding recently. The management of patients with severe ocular surface disease has always been a challenge for ophthalmologists. AMT offers the advantage over conventional corneal transplantation – relative ease of surgery and avoidance of allograft rejection & has become attractive alternate for countries where there is shortage of corneal tissue. Even if corneal transplantation is required it can be performed after AMT where ocular surface is not inflamed. Aim – To evaluate the role of amniotic memane as a graft material in the management of ocular surface disorders. Design – Prospective analytical study. Methods – The study included 45 patients; 24 (53.3%) cases of pterygium, 11 (24.5%) Chemical injury, 5 (11.2%) Symblepharon, 2(4.4%) thermal injury, 2 (4.4%) persistent corneal epithelial defect and 1(2.2%) SJS. They were treated with fresh amniotic memane graft and improvement in the signs and symptoms were evaluated. The overall success rate was 84.4% in achieving goal of symptomatic relief, improved epithelialization, stromal healing and vision. Conclusion – AMT offers the advantage over conventional corneal transplantation – relative ease of surgery and avoidance of allograft rejection & has become attractive alternate for countries where there is shortage of corneal tissue. Even if corneal transplantation is required it can be performed after AMT where ocular surface is not inflamed.