What is the role of an amniotic membrane graft in equine corneal surgery?

• A. It provides a biological scaffold that supports epithelial healing, reduces inflammation, and promotes rapid re-epithelialization of nonhealing corneal ulcers
• B. It is primarily used as a diagnostic tool for corneal pathology
• C. It acts as a source of systemic antibiotics
• D. It replaces the cornea entirely

Answer: (A)

An amniotic membrane graft on the equine cornea serves as a temporary biological scaffold for the surface of the eye, guiding healing and dampening inflammation. It provides a basement-membrane–like substrate that supports epithelial cells migrating from the wound margins, which accelerates re-epithelialization of nonhealing ulcers. In addition, the membrane has anti-inflammatory and anti-scarring properties, helping to reduce inflammation and neovascularization that can hinder healing. This makes it especially useful for persistent epithelial defects and ulcers that don’t respond to medical therapy. It is not used as a diagnostic tool, not a source of systemic antibiotics, and it does not replace the cornea; it covers and protects the surface while the normal corneal tissue regenerates and the graft eventually resorbs or integrates.