What is The P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for PTERYGIUM® Surgical Technique
In cases where non-surgical treatments are not sufficient in managing the symptoms of a pterygium, surgical removal may be recommended. Some patients may also elect the surgical removal of a pterygium for cosmetic purposes.
The most effective method to remove a pterygium is perfect pterygium surgery, known as the P.E.R.F.E.C.T (Pterygium Extended Removal Followed by Extended Conjunctival Transplant) method, developed by Professor Hirst.
To explain how perfect pterygium surgery works, we can break down the different components of the P.E.R.F.E.C.T method.
Pterygium Extended Removal
First, the pterygium is carefully and precisely removed using a technique that reduces the chance of reoccurrence.
For extended removal, a portion of the underlying conjunctival tissue is removed along with the pterygium. Incomplete tissue removal is one cause of pterygium reoccurrence after the traditional removal method, so removing some of the underlying conjunctival tissue helps to prevent this.
The removal of tissue then needs to be followed up by a conjunctival tissue graft, which is the next component of the method.
Extended Conjunctival Transplant
A conjunctival transplant involves taking a piece of healthy conjunctival tissue from another area of the eye, typically from either a different location on the same eye or from the opposite eye. The tissue is then placed on the area where the pterygium was removed.
A conjunctival transplant not only further reduces the chance of reoccurrence, but it can significantly improve the cosmetic results.
What to expect during perfect pterygium surgery
The P.E.R.F.E.C.T pterygium surgery is often performed with local anaesthesia, but some patients may request general anaesthesia. Local anaesthesia is commonly used to numb the eye area, allowing the patient to remain awake without feeling pain.
The procedure takes about an hour, but the time will typically depend on the complexity of the surgery. Before you undergo the procedure, Dr. Pappalardo can explain how it will be performed and what to expect on the day of the procedure.
The creation of the P.E.R.F.E.C.T for PTERYGIUM® method
The P.E.R.F.E.C.T method was developed by Professor Lawrence Hirst, an Australian ophthalmologist, to improve the procedure’s results and reduce recurrence rates in pterygium surgery. Dissatisfied with the high reoccurrence rates and complications of traditional techniques, Professor Hirst focused on refining the surgical approach.
He developed P.E.R.F.E.C.T as a comprehensive procedure that involves the meticulous removal of the pterygium tissue, followed by an extended conjunctival autograft, which is sutured in place to cover the exposed area. The method aims to both minimise reoccurrence and improve cosmetic results.
By addressing factors that contribute to regrowth, such as inflammation and incomplete tissue removal, perfect pterygium surgery has demonstrated significantly lower recurrence rates and has become a preferred approach, particularly for cases prone to recurrence. Professor Hirst’s work with the P.E.R.F.E.C.T method has gained recognition as one of the more effective techniques for long-term pterygium management.
How successful is the P.E.R.F.E.C.T method in reducing the reoccurrence of a pterygium?
Perfect pterygium surgery significantly lowers the chance of a pterygium reoccurring after surgical removal, but reoccurrence is still possible.
When it comes to surgery, we cannot guarantee that it can completely prevent reoccurrence. However, the P.E.R.F.E.C.T method was developed after extensive research in the treatment and prevention of pterygium, and is the most effective treatment option.
According to scientific reports, if a pterygium reoccurs, it usually reoccurs during the first year after surgical removal.
Pterygium surgery can often be performed a second time if a pterygium reoccurs after the initial removal.
Dr Juanita Pappalardo: Trained in the P.E.R.F.E.C.T method by pioneer Professor Lawrence Hirst
The perfect pterygium surgery should always be performed by a highly trained ophthalmologist with a thorough understanding of the method.
Dr Pappalardo is one of the only ophthalmologists in Australia and worldwide who has been trained in the P.E.R.F.E.C.T. for PTERYGIUM® technique alongside the pioneer Professor Lawrence Hirst.
Not only does she have an in-depth understanding of the technique, she has been trained in the meticulous assessment of pterygium, allowing for an accurate diagnosis of the condition.