Ocular Surface Reconstruction
Multimodal restoration of corneal and conjunctival surface in severe disease
This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →
What is Ocular Surface Reconstruction?
Ocular surface reconstruction is the staged management of severe surface disease combining medical optimization, anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive therapy, surgical components (amniotic membrane transplantation, mucous membrane grafting, conjunctival autografts, limbal stem cell transplantation), keratoprosthesis, and lifelong rehabilitation. The goals are to restore a stable epithelium, eliminate inflammation, reconstruct fornix anatomy, and maximize visual function.
Causes of severe surface disease include chemical and thermal burns, Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, ocular cicatricial pemphigoid, severe atopic and vernal keratoconjunctivitis, mucous membrane pemphigoid, post-radiation, post-surgical (multiple keratoplasties, mitomycin-C exposure), aniridia, ectodermal dysplasia, and severe dry eye.
A staged approach typically begins with medical optimization (lubrication, autologous serum, scleral lenses, anti-inflammatory drops, systemic immunosuppression), proceeds to surgical reconstruction (amniotic membrane transplantation for persistent epithelial defects, symblepharon release with mucous membrane grafts, limbal stem cell transplantation, fornix reconstruction with mucous membrane), and concludes with visual rehabilitation (penetrating keratoplasty after stable surface, keratoprosthesis for end-stage disease). Multidisciplinary care is essential.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:
- Severe ocular surface burn requiring urgent care
- Persistent epithelial defect not responding to therapy
- Severe Stevens-Johnson syndrome with ocular involvement
- Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid
- Severe atopic keratoconjunctivitis with corneal damage
- Aniridic keratopathy
- Symblepharon developing
- Trichiasis or lid abnormalities causing surface damage
- Failed prior keratoplasty
- Severe dry eye unresponsive to standard therapy
- Multidisciplinary care need
- Considering staged surgical approach
- Quality-of-life impairment from surface disease
Treatment Methods
Which Department to Visit?
You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.
Learn About Göz Hastalıkları DepartmentLet us help you
You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.
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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.