Finger's amniotic membrane buffer technique: Protecting the cornea during radiation plaque therapy

Objective: To use amniotic membranes as a buffer between the cornea and radioactive eye plaques. Methods: Six melanomas were treated with ophthalmic plaque radiation therapy. Plaque-tumor localization required that a portion of the gold plaque touch the cornea during treatment. To enhance patient comfort and protect the cornea, an (0.1-mm-thick) amniotic membrane was interposed between the metal plaque edge and the cornea. Results: Minimal ocular discomfort was noted during plaque radiation therapy. On a scale of 1 (none) to 10 (severe), all 6 patients reported pain levels of 1. As a tissue equivalent and because the mean thickness was only 0.1 mm, amniotic membranes had no significant effect on radiation dose calculations. No adverse effects, infections, or abrasions were noted. Conclusion: The amniotic membrane buffer technique improves patient comfort and protects the cornea during ophthalmic plaque radiation therapy.