Comparison of fibrin glue and sutures for attaching conjunctival autografts after pterygium excision.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the efficacy and safety of fibrin glue and suturing for attaching conjunctival autografts among patients undergoing pterygium excision.


METHODS
Prospective, randomized, interventional case series.


METHODS
Twenty-two patients undergoing excision of primary pterygium.


METHODS
A superior conjunctival autograft was harvested and transferred onto bare sclera after pterygium excision. Fibrin glue (Beriplast P) was used to attach the autograft in 11 eyes and nylon 10-0 suture was used to attach the autograft in 11 eyes. The patients were followed up for 2 months.


METHODS
Graft success, recurrence rate, operating time, patient comfort.


RESULTS
All conjunctival autografts in both groups were successfully attached and were intact after 2 months. The average operating time for the fibrin glue group was significantly shorter (P<0.001). Postoperative symptoms were fewer for the fibrin glue group than the suture group. One patient (9%) from the fibrin group experienced subconjunctival hemorrhage, and 1 patient (9%) from the suture group experienced partial graft dehiscence.


CONCLUSIONS
Fibrin glue is a safe and effective method for attaching conjunctival autografts. The use of fibrin glue results in shorter operating times and less postoperative discomfort.
Uy
Harvey S
HS
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of the Philippines, Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines. harveyuy@yahoo.com
Reyes
Johann Michael G
JM
Flores
John D G
JD
Lim-Bon-Siong
Ruben
R
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003228:Conjunctiva / Q000637:transplantation*; D005260:Female; D015718:Fibrin Tissue Adhesive; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011625:Pterygium / Q000601:surgery*; D012449:Safety; D013536:Suture Techniques; D014014:Tissue Adhesives; D014182:Transplantation, Autologous; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D015718:Fibrin Tissue Adhesive; D014014:Tissue Adhesives