PTERYGIUM

WHAT IS PTERYGIUM?

A pterygium is a raised fleshy, wedge-shaped growth which extends from the white of the eye onto the cornea. The cornea is the clear central part of the eye in front of the iris or coloured part of the eye. It is a non-cancerous growth that may occur in both eyes.

WHAT CAUSES PTERYGIUM?

Anyone can get a pterygium , but they are more likely to occur in people who spend large amounts of time outdoors. Hot dry environments, exposure to ultraviolet ligh and irritants such as wind and dust, are strongly associated with the formation of pterygia. Protecting the eyes from these conditions may prevent pterygium formation.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON SYMPTOMS?

Pterygium can cause a number of problems, symptoms to be aware of are:

The affected eye is red and irritated

It may feel like there is something in the eye

The affected eye may be dry

Wearing contact lenses is uncomfortable or difficult

Loss of vision

CAN IT BE TREATED?

Treatment of pterygium depends on the size and extent of the growth. Redness and irritation may be treated with lubricating eye drops. Surgery may be recommended if the pterygium is large and near the central cornea, threatening vision or if it continually causes irritation or is cosmetically unacceptable.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS?

HOW IS PTERYGIUM REMOVAL DONE?

The pterygium is carefully dissected away. Your ophthalmologist will remove some tissue from the surface of the same eye and glue it onto the area of the excised pterygium to help prevent it from recurring.

WILL I BE ASLEEP FOR THE PROCEDURE?

No. Pterygium surgery is usually performed under local anaesthetic together with a mild sedative.

IS IT PAINFUL?

Most people experience no pain with the surgery itself but there may be some pain the following day which can be controlled with medication.

HOW LONG WILL THE PROCEDURE TAKE?

The procedure will take approximately 30 minutes.

HOW LONG WILL I BE IN HOSPITAL?

You will need to spend a few hours at the hospital but will be discharged the very same day.

WILL I NEED TO TAKE TIME OFF WORK?

Usually only the day of the surgery and perhaps the day after.

IS IT SAFE? WHAT ARE THE RISKS INVOLVED?

The surgery is quite safe but as with any medical procedure, there may be risks. Ask your doctor to discuss these with you in more detail.

Can my pterygium come back?

Yes, but the rate of recurrence is low, usually about 5%