Photochemical–Tissue Bonding Toward a More Effective Strategy for Corneal Epithelial Healing after Alkali Burn

Purpose: This study evaluated the effectiveness of amniotic membrane photochemical–tissue bonding (AMPTB) versus amniotic membrane grafting (AMG) on treating corneal alkali burns in a rabbit model. Methods: Thirty-six albino rabbits with induced corneal alkali burns were divided into three groups: (a) untreated ulcer group (n = 12), (b) AMPTB group (n = 12), where the amniotic membrane (AM) was attached to the cornea using 532-nm light and Rose Bengal dye, and (c) AMG group (n = 12), in which the AM was secured using cyanoacrylate glue. The area, perimeter, and integrated density of the corneal ulcer were assessed using digital photographs analyzed with ImageJ software, alongside histological evaluation. Results: The AMPTB group experienced significant reductions in corneal ulcer area (−73.4%, −79.8%, and −89.3%), perimeter (−48.5%, −54.0%, and −67.2%), and integrated density (−81.2%, −85.1%, and −96.8%) after 1 day, 1 week, and 2 weeks, respectively. In comparison, the AMG group showed reductions in ulcer area (−65.2%, −67.5%, and −87.7%), perimeter (−35.5%, −40.9%, and −52.7%), and integrated density (−72.4%, −69.5%, and −94.7%). Additionally, histological analysis demonstrated earlier re-epithelialization of the cornea in the AMPTB group compared to the AMG group. Conclusion: The findings suggest that AMPTB promotes more rapid healing of the corneal epithelium and significant reductions in ulcer area, perimeter, and integrated density compared to AMG. AMPTB may, therefore, represent a promising alternative to AMG for the management of corneal alkali burns.