Repair of Scleral Ulcer with Bovine Pericardium

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study was performed to evaluate the effect of bovine pericardium used in scleral ulcer resulting from excision of pterygium and MMC. METHODS: Nine eyes of 9 patients who had painful scleral ulcer resulting from excision of pterygium and MMC were repaired with bovine pericardium (Lyoplant(R)). The rotation conjunctival flap was placed over the graft area. We measured the results and complications of treatment. RESULTS: Eight patients showed loss of eyeball pain, epiphora, and inflammation. There were visual improvement, good conjunctival healing after the procedure. One patient showed loss of overlying conjunctiva and progression of scleral ulcer because of pseudomonas infection. After control of infection and secondary procedure, there were good conjunctival healing, relief of the symptom and visual improvement. CONCLUSIONS: The authors suggest bovine pericardium appears to be an excellent substitute for autogenous or homologous tissue in scleral ulcer treatment.