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.