[Keratoprosthes made with soft plastic material--first experiments on animals (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomaterials Science
• Corneal Surgery

Context:

• Keratoprosthesis implants are used to restore vision in severe corneal diseases.
• Traditional implants face challenges like extrusion and inadequate corneal nutrition.
• Hydroxy-ethyl-methacrylate (HEMA) is a hydrophilic polymer with potential biocompatibility.

Purpose:

• To develop and evaluate novel keratoprosthesis implants using HEMA.
• To assess the biocompatibility, stability, and effect on corneal nutrition of HEMA implants.
• To reduce implant extrusion rates and improve intraocular tissue health.

Summary:

• HEMA-based keratoprosthesis implants were surgically inserted into 30 rabbit eyes.
• Over a 21-month observation period, no implant extrusion was observed.
• The HEMA material hydrated and expanded, establishing close contact with surrounding corneal tissue.
• The material's permeability facilitated corneal nutrition, and infection risk was not elevated.

Impact:

• HEMA keratoprosthesis implants demonstrate promising results in preventing extrusion.
• The material's properties suggest improved integration and potential for enhanced corneal tissue nutrition.
• These findings support further investigation of HEMA for advanced keratoprosthesis designs.