Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia Surgery Has Strong Anatomic, Functional Outcomes

Conjunctival reconstruction with amniotic membrane and buccal mucosa after resection of ocular surface squamous neoplasia from the fornix is efficacious, has good tumor control, and high levels of organ preservation, according to research published in the Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology.

Researchers conducted a retrospective case series analysis to evaluate the safety and efficacy of tumor resection with or without adjunctive therapy for ocular surface squamous neoplasia of the fornix, including subsequent reconstruction of lost conjunctiva with buccal mucosa and amniotic membrane.

The researchers included data from slit-lamp examination, photographic documentation, and biopsy results, and their analysis focused on eye function, complications, additional procedures, and recurrence rate. 

A total of 83 affected eyes from 76 patients (mean age, 63.10±14.45 years; 45% women, 55% men) were included in the study. The mean follow-up duration was 26.56±21.17 months. 

The researchers found bulbus oculi salvage in 99% of eyes and preserved visual acuity with a mean 0.2±0.5 logarithm of minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) and 0.3±0.5 logMAR at presentation and last follow-up visit, respectively. 

The researchers found that only 27.71% of patients required corrective surgery for complications. Notable complications included symblepharon (9.64%), cicatricial ectropion (9.64%), pannus (9.64%), and corneal decompensation (8.43%). They reported local tumor recurrence in 27.71% of patients.

“Overall, the complete surgical technique described in this report produced a reasonable recurrence rate, preserved the globe, and resulted in stable visual function,” according to the study authors.