Sutureless fixation of amniotic membrane using a soft ring for ocular surface diseases.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of sutureless amniotic membrane transplantation using a soft bioavailable ring in the management of ocular surface disorders.

METHODS

We present a modified technique using a soft, special designed bioavailable ring set (Amnioring) for sutureless amniotic membrane fixation to the ocular surface. A fresh amniotic membrane with a diameter greater than the outside diameter of the ring was folded inwardly over the ring such that the inner side of the ring was covered with the amniotic membrane. The ring was inserted onto the ocular surface.

RESULTS

The ring was inserted in 4 eyes of 4 consecutive patients with ocular surface disorders. The mean total operating time was 3 min. The ring fixated the amniotic membrane to the bulbar conjunctiva and provided a quick and easy sutureless placement of amniotic membrane. In all cases, pain was significantly relieved. The corneal epithelial defect and inflammation were markedly reduced.

CONCLUSIONS

This novel ring designed for sutureless placement of amniotic membrane provided very good anatomic and functional outcomes in patients with ocular surface disorders. It is less invasive, less time consuming and allows placement in the office conditions with low cost.