Donor Cornea Use in Scleral Surface Reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Surgery
• Ocular Surface Reconstruction

Background:

• Scleral tissue defects and exposed glaucoma drainage implants pose reconstructive challenges.
• Donor corneal tissue, unsuitable for keratoplasty, represents a potential resource.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the indications and outcomes of using unused or leftover donor corneal grafts for scleral surface reconstruction.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of corneal grafts in repairing scleral defects and covering implants.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective evaluation of 16 patients undergoing scleral repair or implant coverage with corneal grafts.
• Preparation of partial-thickness (microkeratome or manual) and full-thickness grafts.
• Follow-up for 6-42 months to assess graft integrity, complications, and visual outcomes.

Main Results:

• Indications included trauma, glaucoma surgery complications, dermoid excision, pterygium surgery, and exposed implants.
• No graft infections, thinning, rejection, or vision loss occurred.
• All patients achieved good graft-host integration, smooth ocular surfaces, and satisfactory cosmetic results.

Conclusions:

• Unused donor corneas are a viable option for scleral tissue loss and glaucoma implant erosion.
• Corneal grafts provide effective ocular surface restoration and cosmetic improvement in these cases.
• Further large-scale studies are needed to confirm long-term effectiveness and safety.