Removal of Benign Conjunctival Naevus by Argon Laser Photocoagulation compared to Surgical Excision

Abstract

Background: Conjunctival naevus is a widespread benign eye tumor. Surgical excision or argon laser photocoagulation are treatment choices for superficial and deep conjunctival naevi. Purpose: To compare between surgical excision and argon laser photoablation of conjunctival naevus concerning safety, efficacy and post removal complications. Patients & Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in Ophthalmology Department, Al-Azhar University Hospitals, Egypt in the period from January 2022 till January 2023 included 40 patients presenting with benign pigmented conjunctival naevi formed of two groups; Group (1) included 20 patients and removal of conjunctival naevi by argon laser photocoagulation was done while group (2) included 20 patients and surgical excision of conjunctival naevi was done. Results: As regard to post removal complications, recurrence of naevi occurred in group (1) only, dry eye was higher in argon laser ablation than surgical excision (15% vs 5%), conjunctival inflammation was higher in excision than argon laser (20% vs 10%) and scaring occurred in surgical excision group only. Unsatisfaction was higher in surgical excision than laser ablation. Also, there was statistically significant difference between both groups as regard to complications. Conclusion: Argon laser ablation is a simple and efficient treatment of benign conjunctival naevi and may be used in chosen patients instead of a traditional surgical technique.