A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Sutures versus Autologous Blood for Graft Fixation in Pterygium Surgery Using Conjunctival Limbal Autograf

Authors

Mahfooz Alam , Saumya Sharma , Priyangee Sen , Subodh kumar Agarwal , Sahasra Surapaneni , Uday Singh Beri, Ikhlaq Abbas, Mohd Aamir Author

Keywords:

Pterygium, Conjunctival limbal autograft, sutures, blood

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate and compare the clinical outcomes of conjunctival limbal
autograft (CLAU) fixation using autologous blood versus sutures in patients
undergoing pterygium excision.
Methods: A prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 120
patients with primary nasal pterygium. They were divided into two equal groups:
Group A (n=60) received CLAU fixation using 8-0 vicryl sutures, and Group B
(n=60) had the graft secured using the patient's own fresh blood. Patients were
assessed for postoperative discomfort, healing time, recurrence, inflammation, cost,
and complications over a 6-month follow-up period.
Results: Group B showed significantly better patient comfort, reduced inflammation,
faster epithelial healing, and greater cost-effectiveness. Recurrence was slightly
lower in Group B (1.6%) compared to Group A (3.3%).
Conclusion: Autologous blood is a safe, effective, and economical alternative to
sutures for CLAU fixation in pterygium surgery with comparable recurrence rates
and superior patient tolerance.