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Results from the multicenter Boston Type 1 Keratoprosthesis Study
Brian L Zerbe1, Michael W Belin, Joseph B Ciolino
1Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA.
Ophthalmology
|July 29, 2006
Summary
The Boston Type 1 keratoprosthesis offers a viable solution for patients with multiple failed corneal grafts or poor prognoses for traditional transplants. Early follow-up shows significant visual improvement and high graft retention rates.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Biomaterials in Medicine
Background:
- Corneal transplantation is a common procedure for vision restoration.
- Graft failure and complex ocular conditions necessitate alternative surgical solutions.
- The Boston Type 1 keratoprosthesis (KPro) has emerged as an option for eyes with a history of multiple graft failures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the indications, surgical practices, complications, and outcomes of the Boston Type 1 keratoprosthesis.
- To present findings from the first multicenter study on this corneal implant.
- To assess the early efficacy and safety of Boston KPro in a diverse patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, noncomparative, interventional case series was conducted.
- 141 Boston Type 1 keratoprosthesis procedures were analyzed across 17 surgical sites.
- Data on 70 preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative parameters were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Common indications included graft rejection (54%), chemical injury (15%), and bullous keratopathy (14%).
- Preoperative best-corrected visual acuity was <20/200 in 96% of eyes.
- Postoperative visual acuity improved to ≥20/200 in 57% of eyes at 8.5 months, with 95% graft retention.
Conclusions:
- The Boston Type 1 keratoprosthesis demonstrates viability for patients with failed corneal grafts.
- It offers a promising alternative for cases with a poor prognosis for primary penetrating keratoplasty.
- Comorbidities like advanced glaucoma significantly impact long-term outcomes.