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[Keratoplasty and donor age distribution].
Klinische Monatsblatter Fur Augenheilkunde
|July 31, 1999
Summary
Donor age does not significantly impact corneal transplant success. This study found no correlation between older donor corneas and graft failure, encouraging broader acceptance of donor tissue.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Transplantation Medicine
- Corneal Surgery
Background:
- Historically, younger donor corneas were preferred for penetrating keratoplasty (PK).
- Limited data exists on the long-term outcomes of PK using older donor corneas.
- This study investigates the relationship between donor age and corneal graft survival.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if donor age correlates with corneal graft failure.
- To evaluate the long-term results of penetrating keratoplasty (PK) using older donor corneas.
- To inform eye bank policies and surgical practices regarding donor cornea acceptance.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 615 penetrating keratoplasties (PK) performed between 1986 and 1991.
- Data collection included graft clarity reports from referring ophthalmologists.
- Mean follow-up duration was 37.3 months, with analysis of various recipient diagnoses.
Main Results:
- The average donor age was 71.2 years (range 31-98).
- No significant difference in graft clarity was observed between younger and older donor corneas.
- Donor age did not significantly influence graft survival, even in high-risk patients or those with endothelial disorders.
Conclusions:
- Donor age should not be a primary criterion for corneal graft rejection.
- Encourages eye banks and surgeons to consider older donor corneas when other quality indicators are favorable.
- Optimizing donor cornea utilization can help address shortages and reduce waiting lists.