Long-term follow-up after submandibular gland transplantation in severe dry eyes secondary to cicatrizing conjunctivitis.

Purpose: To evaluate the long-term results of autologous submandibular gland transplantation in eyes with cicatrizing conjunctivitis and to determine biomechanical and biochemical features of the resulting salivary tear film.

Design: Prospective, observational case series.

Methods: Fifteen eyes with cicatrizing conjunctivitis with a viable autologous submandibular gland transplantation were compared with 10 eyes with cicatrizing conjunctivitis and a failed submandibular gland transplantation or no submandibular gland transplantation.