Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for beta-radiation-induced scleral necrosis.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Beta-radiation has been used since 1950 as a postoperative measure to reduce the recurrence of pterygia. Scleral necrosis has been a major complication after radiotherapy that has led to perforation of the globe, endophthalmitis, and visual loss in some cases.

METHOD:

A patient is presented in whom scleral necrosis developed 25 days after a pterygiectomy with bare sclera technique followed by 3000 cGy in 3 weekly, divided doses of strontium 90. After a conjunctival graft failure, the patient was treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

RESULTS:

The sclera revascularized and returned to nearly normal thickness after 14 sessions of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

CONCLUSION:

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be an effective treatment for acute scleral necrosis after postoperative beta-radiation.

• Authors: M O Green, A L Brannen
• Journal: Ophthalmology (Ophthalmology) Vol. 102 Issue 7 Pg. 1038-41 (Jul 1995) ISSN: 0161-6420 [Print] United States
• PMID: 9121750 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Strontium Radioisotopes

Topics

• Adult
• Humans
• Hyperbaric Oxygenation
• Male
• Necrosis
• Pterygium (radiotherapy, surgery)
• Radiation Injuries (etiology, pathology, therapy)
• Radiotherapy, Adjuvant (adverse effects)
• Sclera (pathology, radiation effects)
• Strontium Radioisotopes (adverse effects, therapeutic use)