Re-epithelialization of the Conjunctiva After Conjunctival Excision in the Rabbits

ABSTRACT

Bare sclera technique for pterygium is used frequently because of its lower recurrence rate than those of other techniques. Various factors may influence reepithelialization of the bare sclera and the corneal defects. We excised various sizes of conjunctiva and abraded corneal epithelium in rabbits, and then studied at various intervals the pattern and the rate of their reepithelialization over the bare sclera and the cornea along with histologic findings, and the effect of 0.04 % mitomycin eyedrops on reepithelialization. We obtained the following results. 1. The bare sclera was epithelialized completely by the 7th or 8th day postoperatively, when the conjunctiva was serially excised, ranging from 3 X 3 mm to 6 X 6 mm in size. The rate of reepithelialization between the groups was not statistically significant(p>0.05). 2. The defect of the cornea was epithelialized by the 3rd day postoperatively in all experimental groups, and the reepithelialization rate between the groups was not statistically significant(p>0.05). 3. Reepithelialization over the bare sclera progressed posteriorly from the limbus, however, in the case of the cornea, epithelialization progressed from the margin of the defect to the limbus. 4. 0.04% mitomycin eyedrops did not have any effect on epithelialization over the bare sclera and the corneal defect.