Retrospective review of clinical outcomes of fornix reservoir restoration surgery for conjunctivochalasis with cryopreserved amniotic membrane

Abstract

Background: Conjunctivochalasis (CCh) is characterized by loose, redundant conjunctival folds that result in tear film instability. For cases that are refractory to conventional therapies, surgical treatment may be used to address the underlying pathophysiology. Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the clinical outcome of fornix reservoir restoration surgery with cryopreserved amniotic membrane (AM) in patients with symptomatic CCh. Setting and Design: This was an observational, retrospective, single-site study. Materials and Methods: Retrospective review of eyes with CCh that underwent fornix deepening reconstruction with conjunctival recession and AM transplantation with at least 3 months of follow-up. Outcome measures, which were assessed at 2 ± 1 weeks postoperatively and at the last follow-up visit, included CCh severity, symptoms, tear break-up time (TBUT), corneal and conjunctival fluorescein staining, subconjunctival hemorrhage, and delayed tear clearance. Statistical Analysis Used: Wilcoxon signed–rank test and Fisher’s exact test were used for statistical analysis. Results: Ten eyes (76.9%) presented with Grade 3 CCh, and 3 eyes (23.1%) presented with Grade 2 CCh along with ocular irritation (100%), epiphora (84.6%), dryness (76.9%), ocular pain (38.5%), and photophobia (23.1%). Following surgical intervention, CCh severity significantly improved to Grade 0 in all eyes. This was accompanied by a significant improvement in corneal staining, symptoms, and resolution of conjunctival staining/subconjunctival hemorrhage. Conclusion: Surgical treatment using the reservoir restoration procedure addresses the pathophysiology of CCh as demonstrated by improved symptoms, TBUT, and corneal and conjunctival staining.