Amniotic membrane transplantation for the repair of severe conjunctival dehiscence after strabismus surgery with adjustable sutures.

Abstract

To evaluate the outcome of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) for the repair of severe conjunctival dehiscence that occurred during or after fornix-incision strabismus surgery with adjustable sutures. Retrospective, interventional case series. Four patients in whom severe conjunctival dehiscence developed during or after strabismus surgery were treated with amniotic membrane grafts. The extent of conjunctival reepithelization over sclera, range of ocular motility, and patient comfort were evaluated immediately after the surgery and at 1, 2, and 4 weeks. The mean follow-up period was 16 weeks (range 4 to 28 weeks). Conjunctival dehiscence was detected 0 to 14 days after surgery. AMT was performed 0 to 14 days later. The conjunctival defect was reepithelized in all patients by the fourth postoperative week without evidence of scarring or restriction of motility. In the treatment of large conjunctival defects that may follow strabismus surgery, AMT may be an alternative to conservative management or primary conjunctival closure.