Comparing cauterization and fibrin glue for eye surgery in pterygium treatment

Cauterization Versus fibrin Glue for Conjunctival Autografting in Primary Pterygium Surgery

NA · University of Split, School of Medicine · NCT03321201

This study tests whether using cauterization or fibrin glue during eye surgery helps prevent pterygium from coming back in patients who need the growth removed.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment164 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Split, School of Medicine (other)
Locations1 site (Split)
Trial IDNCT03321201 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of cauterization versus fibrin glue for conjunctival autografting in patients undergoing primary pterygium surgery. Pterygium is a noncancerous growth that can impair vision and cause discomfort, making surgical removal necessary. The study aims to determine which method reduces the recurrence of pterygium after surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either cauterization or fibrin glue during their procedure.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 with primary nasal pterygia greater than 4 mm that are increasing in size.

Not a fit: Patients with connective tissue diseases, prior eye surgeries, or those using topical anti-glaucoma medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical outcomes and reduced recurrence rates for patients undergoing pterygium surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored various techniques for pterygium surgery, but this specific comparison of cauterization and fibrin glue is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria:

* adults (older than 18 years of age)
* both sexes
* primary nasal pterygia ˃4 mm, which tends to increase, including patients with reduced visual acuity, chronic inflammation, cosmetic reasons
* if the patients had a bilateral pterygium, only one eye will be operated

Exclusion criteria:

* connective tissue disease
* prior eye surgery
* chronic use of topical drugs (anti-glaucoma drugs)

Where this trial is running

Split

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Pterygium of Conjunctiva and Cornea

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.