Use of an Eyelid Pressure Patch Concomitantly with a Decellularized Dehydrated Amniotic Membrane for Ocular Surface Disease Management.

INTRODUCTION

Persistent corneal epithelial defects (PCEDs) occur when conditions like dry eye disease (DED), neurotrophic keratitis (NK), and limbal stem cell deficiency impair corneal healing, leading to risks of infection, scarring, or perforation. Decellularized, dehydrated pure amniotic membrane basement membrane (AMBM) supports healing by promoting cell adhesion, growth, and inflammation reduction. Eyelid pressure patching helps stabilize the AMBM, protects the cornea, and enhances its therapeutic effects.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed 144 eyes treated with either a single-layer or three-layer decellularized AMBM combined with a 24-h eyelid pressure patch.

RESULTS

Of the patients included, 90% received a single-layer AMBM and 10% a three-layer AMBM. In the single-layer group, 100% of cases showed complete healing and AMBM dissolution. In the three-layer group, 100% showed corneal staining improvement, but 20-30% of the AMBM remained undissolved. No patients reported experiencing pain, discomfort, or infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Combining eyelid pressure patching with amniotic membrane treatment is a safe and effective approach for healing persistent corneal epithelial defects.