Abstract: Objective To evaluate the effect of autologous labial salivary glands transplantation in the treatment of severe keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Methods Sixteen patients suffered from severe keratoconjunctivitis sicca underwent the transplantation of autologous labial salivary. The labial gland mucosal flap of the ipsilateral lower lip was harvested and sutured to the ipsilateral upper conjunctival fornix. The best-corrected visual acuity, Schirmer test, need for tear substitutes, the subjective satisfaction and the degree of discomfort were investigated before and at different intervals after surgery. Results Postoperative follow-up for 12 months, the autologous labial gland mucosal flap all survived and the good healing in donor site was achieved. The tear secretion was significantly increased on operated side in all patients after surgery compared with before surgery (P <0.05). The need for tear substitutes was significantly reduced and the degree of discomfort significantly was decreased on operated side in all patients after surgery compared with before surgery (P <0.05). The best-corrected visual acuity was improved in 2 of 16 cases. 14 of 16 patients were satisfied with the results. Conclusion The autologous labial salivary glands transplantation could increase tear secretion for severe keratoconjunctivitis sicca, relieve the symptoms of patients with dry eye. It was a promising new treatment option for severe dry eye.

Key words: keratoconjunctivitis sicca, autologous labial salivary gland transplantation, tear