Evaluation of the effectiveness of post-operative beta-irradiation in the management of pterygium

Abstract

A retrospective review of cases of pterygium excision using the bare sclera method followed by application of 2500-3500 rads of Sr 90 beta-radiation carried out between 1994 and the year 2000 at Ojulowo Eye clinic Ibadan and St Mary's Catholic Specialist Eye Hospital Ago-Iwoye, Nigeria. Follow up period was between six months and six years. A total of 124 eyes from 95 patients were operated. 58(61.1%) were male s and 37(38.9%) were females. The youngest patient was 10 years old while the oldest was 89years mean 46.1+ 2 STD of 13.5. Most pterygia were unilateral and nasal in location. Improvement in visual acuity of between 2-6 lines on Snellen chart occurred in 6(4.8%) of operated eyes. Recurrence necessitating repeat surgery and additional radiation occurred in 8 eyes (6.9%). The complications of surgery and beta radiation consisted of conjunctiva inflammation 10(8.6%), cornea opacities 4(3.2%). gritty sensation 3(2.6), cataract 1(0.8%). No case of sclera necroses was observed. Post- operative beta-radiation is safe and effective in preventing recurrence of pterygium.