Glaucoma in keratoplasty

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Surgery
• Glaucoma Research

Background:

• Penetrating keratoplasty is a common corneal transplant procedure.
• Intraocular pressure (IOP) management is crucial post-keratoplasty.
• Glaucoma is a potential complication affecting visual outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze intraocular pressure findings in patients undergoing penetrating keratoplasty.
• To identify risk factors for elevated IOP and glaucoma development after corneal transplantation.
• To compare IOP profiles across different patient groups undergoing keratoplasty.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 676 eyes undergoing penetrating keratoplasty.
• Categorization into four groups: keratoconus, Fuchs' dystrophy/cataract (triple procedure), aphakic, and pseudophakic eyes.
• Monitoring of intraocular pressure and glaucoma incidence pre- and post-surgery.

Main Results:

• No glaucoma cases observed in the keratoconus group.
• Mild, early IOP elevation in a few triple procedure cases.
• Significant early glaucoma incidence in 30% of aphakic eyes and 52% of pseudophakic eyes.
• Persistent glaucoma affected 20% of aphakic and 25% of pseudophakic eyes.

Conclusions:

• Aphakic and pseudophakic eyes are at higher risk for developing glaucoma after penetrating keratoplasty.
• Corneal transplant patients, particularly those who are aphakic or pseudophakic, require vigilant IOP monitoring.
• Early detection and management of glaucoma are essential for preserving vision in post-keratoplasty patients.