Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026
Development of a Noninvasive, Laser-Assisted Experimental Model of Corneal Endothelial Cell Loss
Published on: April 24, 2020
Microwave thermal keratoplasty for myopia: keratoscopic evaluation in porcine eyes
B S Trembly1, N Hashizume, K L Moodie
1Thayer School of Engineering, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire 03755, USA.
Purpose:
Microwave thermal keratoplasty applies microwave energy to elevate the temperature of the paracentral stroma of the cornea to its thermal shrinkage temperature of about 60 degrees C. A suitable pattern of shrinkage in the paracentral cornea can flatten the central cornea. A surface cooling system preserves the epithelium during the procedure.
Methods:
Fourteen enucleated porcine eyes were treated with a prototype microwave thermal keratoplasty applicator that heated in a ring pattern with inner diameter of 3.2 mm and width of 0.7 mm. The change in corneal power was quantified by a videokeratoscope. Slit-lamp microscope examinations and histological assessments were made.
Results:
The 3-mm simulated keratometry reading showed an average of 6.60+/-6.00 D (standard deviation) of flattening. The region of opacity associated with shrinkage extended to 62% (+/-26%) of the corneal thickness. The epithelium was intact in all eyes.
Conclusions:
Microwave thermal keratoplasty applied in the paracentral cornea may flatten the central cornea.
