Factors Affecting Recurrence of Pterygium

Kim, Y H; Kim, C H; Lee, D H; Lew, H M

Abstract

A retrospective analysis was performed after operation of pterygium to evaluate the recurrence rate and to understood the factors influencing recurrence. The subjects were 107 eyes of 107 patients followed for more than three months from March 1, 1997 through December 31, 1997. Factors influencing recurrence were divided into age, sex, methods of operation, operators. The methods of operation included-removal of pterygium, removal of pterygium with Mitomycin-C, sliding conjunctival flap and conjunctival auto-transplantation. The operators were divide into faculties and residents. Comparison was performed using logistic regression. The total recurrence rate was 24.1% and age, operator and methods of operation were considered significant factors affecting recurrence. The increase of recurrence was 0.9451 fold for every 1 year increase in age[P=0.0234*]. The recurrence rate was decreased by 0.1250 fold when removal of pterygium with Mitomycin-C was performed compared to removal of pterygium alone[P=0.0161*]. The risk of recurrence was also decreased in operations using the sliding conjunctival flap[0.7555 fold] and conjunctival autotransplantation[0.8354 fold]. But, there was no statistical significance. There was a 10.3 fold increase in recurrence when the operator was a resident[P=0.005*]. In conclusion, factors lowering recurrence rates are increased age, removal of pterygium with Mitomycin-C, and a skilled operator. As recurrence rates are influenced by the operator, a skilled operator is necessary for lower recurrence rates.