PENETRATING KERATOPLASTY IN HIGH RISK CASES

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Transplantation Surgery

Background:

• Penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in high-risk cases presents significant challenges.
• Poor outcomes are common in pediatric patients, pseudophakic bullous keratopathy, and vascularized corneas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of penetrating keratoplasty in high-risk patient populations.
• To identify factors influencing success and failure in these challenging cases.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 101 patients undergoing PK for high-risk indications.
• Concurrent procedures included PC IOL implantation and vitrectomy.
• Follow-up ranged from six months to four years.

Main Results:

• Gratifying results were achieved with good donor material, intraoperative handling, and postoperative care.
• Concurrent procedures were performed in some cases.
• Chemical injuries and dry eyes showed poor prognosis.

Conclusions:

• Meticulous surgical technique and postoperative management are crucial for successful high-risk PK.
• Corneal transplantation remains unrewarding for patients with chemical injuries or dry eyes.