Anterior Stromal Puncture
The vast majority of the eye conditions that affect people are well-known. The average person has at least heard of diseases like cataracts and glaucoma. Conditions like recurrent corneal erosion? These are far less familiar. As they should be, because, fortunately, conditions like these are relatively uncommon. You don’t need to know all there is to know about the eyes. You just need to know who to call when you notice symptoms you’ve never had before. The Eye Institute at Medical Center Clinic provides care that is centered around you. Our doctors are considerably knowledgeable about the potential underlying causes of ocular symptoms. They’re also fully trained in the most advanced ophthalmic techniques, including epithelial reinforcement, also referred to as anterior stromal puncture.
Don’t wait to see if eye symptoms disappear on their own. The sooner that you understand what is causing your symptoms, the sooner you can regain peace of mind. Contact our Pensacola, FL office today at 850.474.8436 to schedule your visit!
What is Anterior Stromal Puncture Used to Treat?
Recurrent corneal erosion (RCE) can occur some time after an injury that affects the cornea of the eye. The cornea is a protective barrier that is located at the front of your eyes, where it may come into contact with debris or other objects. Injury to the cornea usually heals without incident. However, there is also a chance that, after the injury has healed, symptoms may develop. The epithelium is a layer of highly-regenerative tissue that protects deeper layers of the cornea. In certain circumstances, the corneal epithelium may repeatedly dislodge from its underlying membrane due to poor adhesion. Basically, the two layers of tissue don’t stick together as they should, so symptoms develop. The symptoms of recurrent corneal erosion include redness, tearing, pain, and light sensitivity. Vision may also be affected. Symptoms are usually most noticeable in after sleeping. This is due to the friction between the closed eyelid and the corneal epithelium.
Anterior stromal puncture, more aptly called epithelial reinforcement, is one of several treatments for this RCE. It is the only treatment aside from autologous serous that provides definitive results. Other methods of treating RCE include eye patching, eye lubrication, and a therapeutic contact lens that acts as a bandage over the cornea.
What Happens During an Anterior Stromal Puncture Surgery?
The minor surgical procedure is quite brief. Your doctor will explain the steps they will take prior to your treatment. To begin the procedure, the doctor applies anesthetic eye drops. You will then sit at a slit lamp instrument with your chin and forehead resting on stable shelves. A slit lamp is an instrument that an eye doctor uses to examine the eyes. If you’ve had your eyes examined in the past, you will likely recognize this tool. Before addressing the cornea, your doctor may measure your intraocular pressure. This is done by delivering a quick burst of air to the eye. It is a painless test that provides a baseline measurement for comparison later on. To improve the symptoms of recurrent corneal erosion, epithelial reinforcement creates the environment for the layers of corneal tissue to adhere to one another. It works by creating controlled scar tissue. To do this, the doctor makes punctures on the numbed corneal surface using a very small needle.
Is Anterior Stromal Puncture Painful?
No. The anesthetic eye drops that are used by your ophthalmologist are very powerful. With just a few drops, your eye should be numb for the entire procedure. Your doctor will check in with you regarding the sensations you feel to ensure that you remain comfortable.
What Is the Success Rate of Anterior Stromal Puncture?
The anterior stromal puncture is relied upon relatively often by experienced ophthalmologists. According to studies, approximately 80 percent of these procedures achieve outstanding outcomes. Surgical failure is rare and usually relates to a higher number of active erosions. Uncommon risks associated with this procedure include corneal scarring, corneal perforation, topographic irregularities, and changes in refractive power. You can expect your doctor to discuss the risks you face, and also their methods of reducing them.
What Should I Expect from the Recovery?
Fortunately, the epithelium tissue in the body regenerates with accelerated speed. The entire corneal epithelium “turns over,” meaning it regenerates itself, every seven to 10 days. Your doctor will discuss the steps you must take after your procedure to allow scar tissue to form normally and without interference. You may also receive detailed aftercare instructions that outline how to care for your eyes as healing occurs.
Book A Anterior Stromal Puncture Consultation In Pensacola!
We are dedicated to patient-centered care! Contact us at 850.474.8436 to schedule your appointment for a comprehensive eye exam and discussion of anterior stromal puncture treatment. Our experienced doctors serve patients in Escambia County and the surrounding areas of Florida!
