Dr. Endl performed the very first sutureless graft in Western New York using the new amniotic graft treatment from AmnioGraft®. AmnioGraft® is an amniotic graft treatment used to protect, repair, and heal damaged eye surfaces. “This new sutureless technique can provide faster recovery that is more comfortable and produces a fast cosmetic result,” Dr. Endl says.
Using AmnioGraft® to Treat Pterygium
The amniotic graft technique is safe and regulated through the FDA. It is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, however, Pterygium is the most common. Pterygium is a benign growth of the conjunctiva that can result from an excess dry eye or high exposure to the sun, wind, or dust. Most patients go through life wearing sunglasses and using artificial tears to help reduce Pterygium symptoms. However, it can cause permanent vision problems if left untreated and allowed to grow over the cornea.
“Many times, patients suffer from the feeling of dry eye that is undertreated with eye drops and different topical medicines producing no improvement,” Dr. Endl says. “The new sutureless amniotic graft treatment can provide a fresh new surface and reservoir for patients tears in a short outpatient procedure.”
Treating Conjunctivochalasis
Conjunctivochalasis, or CCH, is another under-diagnosed condition that the AmnioGraft® can treat. CCH is caused by the aging of the eye surface tissue that loosens and wrinkles like the skin on our body. Most treat CCH by prescription eye drops or lubricants that only help with irritation. The amniotic graft procedure relieves the root of the pain by removing the wrinkles and underlying tissue and covering the area with the AmnioGraft® amniotic membrane.
“I was pleasantly surprised by how easy the amniotic graft procedure was to perform.” Dr. Endl says. “Some of these patients have been to too many doctors and have tried many different treatments with no success over the years. Now to have something that goes through insurance and has a fast, comfortable, and pleasing cosmetic result is very encouraging!”
Recovery Time
After the surgery, your eye will be patched overnight and may require topical drops or ointments to help your eye heal. You will be able to resume full activity within 48 hours and achieve full recovery within two to three weeks.
We are proud to offer the latest technology to treat our patients. If you have any of the above conditions or have questions, please give Fichte Endl & Elmer a call so we can find the best solution for you.
