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Visual correction following penetrating keratoplasty
W E Smiddy1, T R Hamburg, G P Kracher
1Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, Fla.
Ophthalmic Surgery
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Contact lenses can optimize vision after penetrating keratoplasty (corneal transplant). This study found contact lens wear did not increase rejection risk or affect topical medication use, especially in patients with good macular potential.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Vision Science
Background:
- Postoperative visual correction after penetrating keratoplasty (corneal transplant) typically involves spectacles.
- Contact lenses offer an alternative for achieving optimal vision in select patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of postoperative contact lens use after penetrating keratoplasty.
- To investigate clinical associations, effects on corneal graft rejection risk, and topical medication use with contact lens wear.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 126 eyes from 101 patients who underwent penetrating keratoplasty.
- Analysis of contact lens use for maximal optical correction and its correlation with visual outcomes and graft health.
Main Results:
- 16% of patients (20 of 126 eyes) wore contact lenses for maximal optical correction.
- Contact lens wear was more frequent in eyes with good macular potential (27%).
- Contact lens use did not increase the risk of corneal graft rejection or interfere with topical medication regimens.
Conclusions:
- Contact lenses are a viable option for enhancing visual acuity following penetrating keratoplasty.
- They are particularly beneficial for patients with good macular potential.
- Contact lens wear is safe and does not compromise graft survival or medical management.