A Pterygium (from the Greek, pterygos, “little wing”) is a wing-shaped, vascular, fleshy growth that originates on the conjunctiva and that can spread to the corneal limbus and beyond. Pterygia are relatively common in the general population.
The prevalence rate of primary pterygium varies from 0.7% to 31% in various populations around the world. Working outdoors increase the risk 1.5-fold. Although exact etiology is not known, risk factors include genetic predisposition, chronic environmental irritations such as dust, dryness, heat, and ultraviolet rays.
A pterygium is generally managed conservatively unless it is progressing toward pupillary area causing excessive astigmatism, resulting in decreased vision. The reported rates of recurrence are 25%–45% after simple excision of primary pterygium.
Pterygium Excision with Conjunctival Autolimbal Graft using Fibrin Glue remains the most effective method for attaching conjunctival autograft in pterygium surgery with least surgical time, least recurrence rate and postoperative discomfort.
