Pterygium Surgery: Why Stitches Are Now Obsolete

Pterygium surgery has evolved significantly in recent years, and one of the most important advancements is the elimination of stitches. Traditional techniques involved suturing the conjunctival graft in place, which often led to discomfort, prolonged healing, and increased inflammation. Today, modern suture-free techniques have revolutionized patient recovery, providing a more comfortable and efficient healing process.

Why Stitches Are No Longer Necessary

Modern pterygium surgery now utilizes tissue glue or sutureless graft placement techniques, which offer significant advantages over traditional suturing methods. These approaches provide a more seamless recovery, reducing pain and inflammation while improving cosmetic outcomes.

1. Faster Healing and Less Inflammation

Stitches create unnecessary trauma to the delicate conjunctival tissue, leading to increased irritation and prolonged healing. By eliminating sutures, patients experience faster tissue integration and less post-operative redness and swelling.

2. Enhanced Patient Comfort

One of the biggest drawbacks of sutured pterygium surgery is post-operative discomfort. Sutures can cause irritation, foreign body sensation, and even pain for weeks after surgery. In contrast, tissue glue or autologous graft adherence significantly improves patient comfort, allowing for a smoother post-operative experience.

3. Reduced Risk of Complications

Sutures can lead to localized inflammation, granuloma formation, and scarring, which may affect the cosmetic outcome and increase the risk of recurrence. The suture-free approach minimizes these risks, leading to a more natural-looking eye post-surgery.

4. Lower Recurrence Rates

Studies have shown that modern sutureless techniques, particularly with the use of fibrin glue, may contribute to lower recurrence rates compared to traditional sutured methods. A well-positioned graft with optimal adherence significantly reduces the chance of the pterygium returning.

5. Shorter Surgical and Recovery Time

With no need to place and remove stitches, surgery time is reduced, and patients can return to normal activities more quickly. The recovery is also much smoother, with fewer post-operative visits required for suture removal or management of stitch-related irritation.

The Future of Pterygium Surgery

With the proven benefits of stitch-free pterygium surgery, stitches are now considered obsolete for the vast majority of cases. Techniques utilizing fibrin glue, autologous graft adherence, or advanced conjunctival flap techniques have set a new standard in pterygium treatment, providing patients with faster recovery, less discomfort, and better long-term results.

If you are considering pterygium surgery, talk to a specialist about suture-free options to ensure the most comfortable and effective treatment possible.