The use of a radiofrequency unit for harvesting conjunctival autografts in pterygium surgery.

PURPOSE: To describe a simplified technique for harvesting a conjunctival autograft using a radiofrequency unit.

DESIGN

Retrospective, noncomparative, interventional case series.

METHOD: The use of radiofrequency to harvest a thin, bloodless conjunctival autograft is described. A retrospective review of 171 primary pterygium procedures on 151 patients seen between April 1998 and December 2001 was done. All surgeries were performed by one surgeon (J.G.C.). All cases had a minimum follow-up of 12 months.

RESULTS

Surgery was completed successfully with no complications in all 171 cases. Recurrence was noted in only 8 cases (4.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of radiofrequency to harvest a conjunctival autograft in pterygium surgery is effective and safe.