Key Concepts Endothelial keratoplasty allows for selective replacement of diseased corneal endothelium, restoring corneal clarity without full-thickness replacement of the entire cornea. One of the most common forms of endothelial keratoplasty, Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) involves preparation and…
Key Concepts Eye banks have standardized the preparation of donor tissue for Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) and Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK). Eye bank preparation of donor tissue for endothelial keratoplasty reduces barriers to adopting endothelial keratoplasty techniques…
Key Concepts Endothelial keratoplasty (EK) is the procedure of choice for patients with endothelial dysfunction in both the adult and pediatric population. EK allows for faster visual recovery and decreased intraoperative and postoperative risks compared to penetrating keratoplasty. EK is…
Introduction During the 20th century, replacement of the endothelial layer for patients suffering from corneal edema was accomplished by performing a full-thickness penetrating keratoplasty (PK). This anatomically nonselective method provided a clear corneal window for vision but required corneal sutures…
Key Concepts Large-diameter corneal grafts are used for the treatment of uncontrolled corneal ulcers, keratomycoses, and other severe necrotizing corneal conditions that threaten vision or the eye itself. Patients with severe ocular surface disease manifesting as conjunctivalization and superficial neovascularization,…
Key Concepts Herpes simplex virus (HSV) keratitis is the most frequent cause of unilateral corneal blindness and the most frequent indication for keratoplasty in developed countries. HSV keratitis is a complex, multifaceted disease, and successful treatment requires a clear understanding…
Key Concepts Deep phenotyping is essential to classify pediatric corneal opacities to allow for appropriate management algorithm. A new classification of neonatal and congenital corneal opacification may help with surgical planning and intervention. Management options include control of ocular comorbidities…
Key Concepts Visual and refractive outcomes of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) are comparable to those achieved by penetrating keratoplasty (PK). The residual stromal bed limits visual outcomes following DALK. As a result, techniques that bare the Descemet membrane may…
Key Concepts The cannula “big bubble” (BB) technique and the bubble test lessen the possibility of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) intraoperative complications. If the air BB fails, the air-visco bubble (AVB) technique can be used. A manual dissection can…
Key Concepts Descemet membrane perforation is the most common intraoperative complication in deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK). Management of anterior chamber pressure can help avoid irreversible damage to the Descemet membrane. Double anterior chamber is a common postoperative complication in…