Penetrating Keratoplasty With Sutureless Intrasclerally Fixated Intraocular Lens

In this retrospective study, we reviewed the use of penetrating keratoplasty with sutureless intrasclerally fixated intraocular lens implantation in a closed anterior chamber in patients with several corneal pathologies and aphakia.

The medical records of 6 patients, who underwent the procedure, were reviewed. In the procedure, lamellar scleral tunnels at the 2- and 8-o'clock positions were created with a microvitreoretinal blade, 1.5 mm away from the limbus. Two 27-gauge bent needles were passed, first horizontally, through these tunnels, and then vertically, which allowed them to enter the posterior chamber and to be left in position. Partial thickness trephination was made, and anterior stroma was removed where necessary. An incision was made at the 11-o'clock position, where the trephination was made, which was then extended to both sides for about 6 mm with corneal scissors. From the superior incision, the anterior haptic of a 3-piece intraocular lens was pushed through the needle at the 2-o'clock position, then the posterior haptic was pushed through the needle at the 8-o'clock position, and both haptics were removed through the sclera. Both ends were cauterized and placed into the sclera. Residual stroma was removed, and the donor graft was sutured.

At the last follow-up visit, the mean bestcorrected visual acuity was significantly increased. No serious complications were seen, with the exception of increased intraocular pressure in 3 patients.

Penetrating keratoplasty with sutureless intrasclerally fixated intraocular lens implantation can be used safely in patients with aphakia. With this technique, the globe stabilization can be maintained, and the trauma to the donor graft endothelium can be minimized.