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Updated: Aug 23, 2026

Corneal Donor Tissue Preparation for Endothelial Keratoplasty
Published on: June 12, 2012
[The effect produced by vacuum compression created by micro-keratome in keratomileusis procedure on the condition of
Abstract:
Described are the results of a clinical experiment involving 15 patients (30 eyes) with myopia ranging from 3.25 to 14.0 diopters. Vacuum compression (application of the vacuum ring from the "Moria" microkeratotome) was preliminarily made on one or both eyes for 30 sec. Computer perimetry and fluorescence angiography of the retina were performed before and after the procedure with an interval of 24 hours. Laser keratomylosis was subsequently made in all patients. According to fluorescence angiography, there were no differences before and after vacuum fixation. According to computer perimetry, the number of relative scotomas was higher, in 20% of cases, in high myopia after the procedure than before it; however this number was within the mean parameters.
Insights
Vacuum compression for myopia treatment showed no retinal changes via angiography. Computer perimetry indicated a slight, non-significant increase in relative scotomas in some high myopia cases post-procedure.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Innovation
- Vision Science
Background:
- Myopia, or nearsightedness, affects a significant portion of the population.
- High myopia presents unique challenges for refractive surgery.
- Investigating novel preparatory techniques for laser eye surgery is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and impact of preliminary vacuum compression on the retina.
- To assess changes in visual field parameters following vacuum application before laser keratomylosis.
Main Methods:
- Clinical experiment involving 15 patients (30 eyes) with myopia (3.25-14.0 diopters).
- Application of vacuum compression using a "Moria" microkeratome for 30 seconds.
- Pre- and post-procedure assessment using computer perimetry and retinal fluorescence angiography (24-hour interval).
Main Results:
- Retinal fluorescence angiography revealed no observable differences before and after vacuum fixation.
- Computer perimetry showed a transient increase in relative scotomas in 20% of high myopia cases.
- The observed increase in scotomas remained within acceptable mean parameters.
Conclusions:
- Preliminary vacuum compression appears safe for the retina in the context of laser keratomylosis.
- Minor, temporary visual field alterations may occur in some high myopia patients.
- Further research can explore long-term effects and patient-specific responses.

