Conjunctival Autografts: indications and techniques

In conjunctival autograft an autologous free conjunctival graft is obtained from the superior bulbar conjunctiva. It is then sutured to the sclera bed. This technique is widely used in pterygium surgery. In this case the graft is obtained from the same eye. It may also be obtained from an healthy fellow eye if previous surgery, limbal stem cell deficiency or scarring is present. With this common procedure, a very low rate of recurrence is observed in the treatment of pterygium. However a lack of understanding of the basic principles of this surgery can result in a poor outcome and frequent recurrences. In this presentation we will review together all the important steps required for a successful conjunctival autograft.