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Updated: Mar 16, 2026
Corneal Donor Tissue Preparation for Descemet's Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty
Published on: September 17, 2014
Removal of Retained Descemets Membrane Using Femtosecond Laser
William May1, Sultan Alrashidi2, Yassine J Daoud3
1King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
We present a unique method of retrocorneal membrane removal with a femtosecond laser (FSL). A 22-year-old male who had undergone penetrating keratoplasty had a retained retrocorneal membrane and a double anterior chamber postoperatively. The membrane was dissected completely with the FSL and the free-floating membrane was removed. Histopathological evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of retained Descemets membrane (DM). There was improvement in uncorrected visual acuity from 20/300 to 20/50. Central corneal endothelial cell count was 810 cells/mm(2) preoperatively and 778 cells/mm(2) postoperatively. Inadvertent retention of DM may be safely treated with the FSL. Clarity and viability of the existing graft can be maintained.
Insights
Femtosecond laser (FSL) dissection offers a safe method for removing retained Descemet
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Laser Technology
Background:
- Post-penetrating keratoplasty complications can include retained Descemet's membrane (DM).
- A retained DM can lead to a double anterior chamber and reduced visual acuity.
Observation:
- A 22-year-old male presented with a retained retrocorneal membrane after penetrating keratoplasty.
- The membrane caused a double anterior chamber and significantly impaired vision.
Findings:
- Femtosecond laser (FSL) dissection successfully separated the retained DM.
- Histopathology confirmed the membrane as retained DM.
- Post-procedure, uncorrected visual acuity improved from 20/300 to 20/50.
- Corneal endothelial cell count remained stable (810 to 778 cells/mm²).
Implications:
- FSL is a viable and safe option for treating retained DM after corneal transplantation.
- This technique preserves the clarity and viability of the corneal graft.
- It offers a minimally invasive approach to managing this specific postoperative complication.
