What is a Pterygium?
A pterygium is a very common condition affecting the eye, characterized by an abnormal growth emerging from the conjunctiva (overlying the white part of the eye) and extends over the cornea, the eye’s clear, crystal window. The main cause of pterygium development is UV exposure through sunlight. Pterygium are far more common in enviroments with high levels of UV.
When should a Perygium be removed?
Pterygium should be removed when they are affecting a persons vision, or they are extending towards the important central parts of the cornea. Small pteryigum (usually 1 or 2mm) can be monitored by you local Optometrist for signs of growth. For patient’s whose pterygium is bothersome due to the irritation or appearance, surgery is also available.
What is P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for Pterygium® Surgery?
P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for Pterygium® is a technique, developed by Prof Lawrence Hirst in Australia, which results in exceptional outcomes for patients requiring pteryigum surgery. The success rate of P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for Pterygium®, is so high, that for initial surgery, the chance of the pterygium recurring or growing back after surgery is 1 in 1000. It has been employed in over 4,000 patients, demonstrating exceptional success rates that are among the best reported in the world’s scientific literature. There are many other techniques for pterygium surgery but these have far inferior success rates, with recurrent pterygium occuring in 5 to 15% of cases.
The P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for Pterygium® surgery technique is distinguished not only by its effectiveness in preventing recurrence but also by its superior cosmetic outcomes, often making it impossible to discern which eye was treated a year post-surgery. It is this success rate and superior cosmetic outcomes that make it possible to offer pteryigum surgery to a wide group of patients
What are the risks of P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for Pterygium® Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved however these are uncommon when using P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for Pterygium®. Some potential risks include recurrence (1 in 1000 for primary surgery), double vision requiring correction (1 in 200-500), lowered upper eyelid height (1 in 500) and the need for a change in glasses prescription. Severe complications that may result in signficant vision loss are extremely rare.
