Risks associated with Pterygium performed at London hospitals?

Ibrahim

I’m considering Pterygium Surgery at a clinic in London but want to understand the potential risks involved.

Drshital

Thank you for your question-it's important to be well-informed before undergoing any surgical procedure.

Pterygium surgery in London is generally considered safe, especially when performed by experienced ophthalmic surgeons in reputable clinics. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks to be aware of:

Recurrence: The most common risk is that the pterygium may grow back. This happens in about 5–15% of cases, though advanced surgical techniques and the use of grafts have significantly reduced recurrence rates.

Infection: Although rare, there is a small risk of infection, which is usually well-managed with antibiotic eye drops.

Inflammation and Redness: Some patients experience temporary inflammation or redness following surgery, which typically resolves with medication.

Scarring: Minimal scarring at the site of removal can occur, but it rarely affects vision.

Vision Changes: In rare cases, there may be changes in your vision or prescription, and very rarely, double vision or loss of vision.

Other Rare Complications: Serious complications such as damage to surrounding tissues or severe infection are extremely uncommon, particularly in well-equipped London clinics.

Amit

If you’re considering pterygium surgery at a clinic in London, it’s important to understand both the common and rare risks associated with the procedure. Here’s a clear summary of potential risks based on clinical evidence and local specialist guidance:

Common Risks and Side Effects
Recurrence: The most significant risk is that the pterygium may regrow. Recurrence rates are typically between 5–10%, but can be higher in cases of recurrent pterygium or if advanced surgical techniques aren’t used. If the growth returns, further surgery may be needed.

Subconjunctival Hemorrhage: About 35–40% of patients experience a small bleed under the surface of the eye. This usually looks like a red patch and resolves on its own within days to weeks.

Graft Edema or Retraction: Swelling or movement of the graft tissue can occur in about 20–30% of cases, but these issues often settle with time or minor intervention.

Discomfort and Redness: Pain, redness, and a gritty sensation are common in the first 24–48 hours after surgery and may persist for several days to weeks. Eye drops and painkillers help manage these symptoms.

Dry Eye: Temporary or, less commonly, persistent dryness or irritation can follow surgery, as the procedure can affect tear distribution.

Less Common Risks
Infection: As with any surgery, there’s a risk of infection. Prompt treatment with antibiotics is effective if this occurs, but untreated infection can threaten vision.

Scarring: Scar tissue may develop at the surgical site. While often mild, significant scarring can cause discomfort or, rarely, affect vision by altering the cornea’s shape (astigmatism).

Graft Loss or Sliding: In rare cases (less than 1%), the graft used to cover the excision site may shift or be lost, sometimes requiring further surgery.

Granuloma Formation: Small lumps (granulomas) can develop at the surgical or donor site, but these are uncommon and usually resolve or can be treated.

Corneal or Scleral Complications: Very rarely, severe complications such as corneal melt, ulceration, or perforation can occur, especially in high-risk or repeat surgeries. These may require intensive treatment or, in extreme cases, corneal transplantation.

Other Considerations
Vision Changes: While surgery is intended to improve or preserve vision, complications like scarring, infection, or corneal changes can, in rare cases, impair vision.

Cosmetic Outcome: Most patients are satisfied with the cosmetic result, but a faint white scar or subtle changes in blood vessel patterns may remain.

How Risks Are Minimized
London clinics use advanced techniques (such as conjunctival autografting and fibrin glue) to reduce recurrence and complications.

Surgeons will assess your individual risk factors and discuss them with you before surgery.

Careful post-operative care, including prescribed eye drops and follow-up visits, further reduces the risk of complications.

In summary:
Pterygium surgery in London is generally safe and effective, but risks include recurrence, bleeding, discomfort, infection, scarring, and, very rarely, more serious eye complications. Choosing an experienced surgeon and following all aftercare instructions will help minimize these risks and support a smooth recovery.

DrKriti

Thank you for your question. Pterygium surgery is a common and generally safe procedure, but like any surgery, it does carry certain risks. It’s great that you're taking the time to understand the potential risks before moving forward with the procedure. Below are some key considerations regarding the risks of Pterygium surgery, which is commonly performed to remove a growth on the surface of the eye (the conjunctiva) and to prevent recurrence:

1. Infection:

As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection. However, the risk is minimal if the surgery is performed in a sterile environment by a skilled surgeon. After surgery, your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for your eye to minimize the chance of infection, such as the use of antibiotic eye drops and avoiding touching the eye.

2. Bleeding:

Bleeding during or after surgery is another potential risk, though it is usually mild and can be controlled by the surgeon. In some cases, small blood vessels on the surface of the eye may bleed during the procedure, but this typically resolves without significant complications. Postoperative care is crucial to reduce the risk of complications.

3. Scarring:

Pterygium surgery can result in some scarring, especially if the tissue is removed more aggressively. Scarring is usually minimal, but in some cases, the scar tissue may cause discomfort or lead to vision disturbances, particularly if it affects the cornea.

4. Recurrence of Pterygium:

One of the most common concerns with Pterygium surgery is the recurrence of the growth after the procedure. Recurrence rates can vary depending on the type of surgery, the size of the pterygium, and how well you follow postoperative care instructions. To minimize recurrence, some surgeons use techniques like conjunctival autografting (using your own tissue to cover the surgical site) or amniotic membrane grafts.

5. Dry Eye and Discomfort:

Postoperative dry eye and discomfort are not uncommon after Pterygium surgery. Many patients experience mild irritation, a feeling of something in the eye, or dryness during the recovery period. These symptoms usually resolve with time, but your surgeon may recommend lubricating eye drops or other treatments to help manage these symptoms.

6. Vision Changes:

Although rare, there is a risk of temporary or permanent vision changes after the surgery, particularly if the pterygium was located close to the cornea. In most cases, vision improves after the pterygium is removed, but it’s important to discuss with your surgeon how the location and size of the pterygium may affect your specific surgery.

7. Anesthesia Risks:

Since Pterygium surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, there are minimal risks associated with anesthesia. However, like any procedure involving anesthesia, there is always a very small risk of a reaction, although this is rare.

8. Delayed Healing:

Healing times can vary, and in some cases, patients may experience delayed healing, which may result in longer recovery times or complications. Following postoperative care instructions closely, including avoiding rubbing your eyes, using prescribed medications, and attending follow-up appointments, is crucial for optimal healing.