AIM: To assess the safety and efficacy of combination therapy using anterior stromal puncture(ASP)and bandage contact lens for recurrent epithelial defects.

METHODS: ASP was used as a treatment for 23 eyes of 22 outpatients with recurrent epithelial defects. At the mean time, they wore bandage contact lens and used eyedrops. All patients report foreign-body sensation, blepharospasm, tearing and photophobia in the morning or evening, some with visual impairment. ASP was performed on every patient with a self-made 41/2 needle under surface anesthesia. The patients worn contact lens after the surgery. We observed symptoms of foreign-body sensation, photophobia, vision,epithelial and stromal scar healing at 3d; 1,2,4,8,12wk. The average follow-up period was 3 months, range 4wk-10mo.

RESULTS: Twenty-two eyes became completely asymptomatic and 19 eyes(83%)were once cured.

CONCLUSION:ASP with bandage contact lens turns out to be an effective, convenient, economical and repeatable therapeutic option for patients with recurrent epithelial defects, which can control the severe foreign-body sensation quickly.