Amniotic Membrane Transplantation In Acute Chemical Ocular Burns

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the role of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) in patients with acute chemical ocular burns. Material & Methods: In a prospective study of 15 patients with grade II-IV acute chemical ocular burns (Roper Hall classification) were included. Out of 15 patients 10 eyes had lime burns and 5 eyes had acid burns. There were 3 eyes of grade II, 4 eyes of grade III and 8 eyes of grade IV burns. Results: Patients were followed up for 10.14+_4.41 months. All patients had immediate relief of pain postoperatively. Of 15 eyes nine (60%) showed epithelialization within 1-4 weeks(15.33+_9.91 days).The final visual acuity improved in 10 to 15 eyes(66%). Eyes with burns of grade II and III showed more visual improvement than those with grade IV burns. None of the eyes showed peroration. Symblepheron was seen in 9 of 15 eyes.(60%). Of 15 eyes, 12(80%) experienced limbal stem cell deficiency and showed superficial corneal vascularization. Conclusion: AMT helps in ocular surface reconstruction, promotes rapid epithelial healing and partially restores limbal stem cell function.