AIM: To observe and assess the efficacy and safety of conjunctival papilla grinding technique in the treatment of severe vernal keratoconjunctivitis(VKC)with giant conjunctival papilla.

METHODS: The prospective and controlled study was performed in 17 patients(24 eyes)with VKC. Eight patients(12 eyes)with giant conjunctival papillae were treated with grinding technique and 9 patients(12 eyes)were performed with conjunctival papillectomy, respectively. A comparison was made on the changes of symptoms including itching, tearing, light sensitivity and grittiness and physical signs of conjunctival papilla and the corneal epithelium before and after surgery.

RESULTS:The symptoms and signs in the first week, the second week and the forth week after the operation were obviously improved in the two groups, and differences in these aspects before and after surgery were of statistical significance(P<0.01). However, by grading of the signs of huge conjunctival nipple in the first week, the second week and the forth week after the operation, and conditions of repair of corneal damage in the second postoperative week, the result showed that efficacy of the grinding group was better than that of the surgical removal group(P<0.05).

CONCLUSION:Conjunctival nipples grinding operation can make the rough conjunctival wound flat quickly, relieve symptoms, and promote the repair of keratoconjunctival epithelium. And it is an effective, safe, and simple method to treat the severe VKC with huge conjunctival nipples.