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Microkeratome assisted deep lamellar keratoprosthesis
S Shimmura1, H Miyashita, Y Uchino
1Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan. shige@sc.itc.keio.ac.jp
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|April 7, 2006
Summary
A novel keratoprosthesis technique using a microkeratome preserved the superficial corneal layer. This deep lamellar keratoprosthesis with artificial hydrogel discs showed promising results in rabbit models.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomaterials Science
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Corneal transplantation is crucial for vision restoration.
- Existing keratoprosthesis techniques can have limitations.
- Maintaining the superficial corneal layer is a surgical goal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a keratoprosthesis (Kpro) surgical technique that preserves the superficial corneal layer.
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel deep lamellar keratoprosthesis using artificial hydrogel implants.
Main Methods:
- A manual microkeratome created a corneal flap in rabbit eyes.
- A collagen I immobilized poly(vinyl alcohol) (COL-PVA) disc was implanted.
- Corneal healing and implant integration were assessed histologically and clinically for 6 months.
Main Results:
- The COL-PVA discs remained transparent without flap or epithelial complications.
- No opacification or significant cellular deposition occurred at the implant interface.
- Histology showed minimal cellular infiltration and comparable vimentin/alpha-SMA staining to controls.
Conclusions:
- Microkeratome-assisted deep lamellar keratoprosthesis is a potentially safe technique.
- This method facilitates the transplantation of artificial hydrogels for therapeutic purposes.
- The technique shows promise for future corneal reconstruction strategies.
