RESULTS OF POSTERIOR LAMELLAR KERATOPLASTIES IN PHAKIC EYES.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Surgery
• Endothelial Keratoplasty

Background:

• Phakic eyes present unique challenges for corneal transplantation.
• Posterior lamellar keratoplasty techniques like DMEK and PDEK aim to preserve the native lens.
• Maintaining accommodation is crucial for visual function in younger patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) and posterior Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (PDEK) in phakic eyes.
• To assess visual acuity, endothelial cell density, and complications after these procedures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 12 posterior lamellar keratoplasties (DMEK/PDEK) performed between June 2016 and December 2019.
• Focus on postoperative visual acuity, corneal endothelial cell density, and complications, including cataract formation.

Main Results:

• 12 surgeries were performed on 11 eyes across 7 patients, with Fuchs endothelial dystrophy being the most common indication.
• Average follow-up was 12.5 months, with 82% of eyes achieving a visual acuity of 0.8 or better.
• Average endothelial cell density was 1589 cells/mm², with a 10.7% rate of complicated cataract requiring removal and a 8.3% rate of graft failure/detachment.

Conclusions:

• Posterior lamellar keratoplasty (DMEK/PDEK) is a viable and safe surgical option for phakic eyes.
• These procedures yield good postoperative results, including excellent visual acuity.
• Preserving the natural lens in phakic eyes through DMEK/PDEK offers a significant advantage in maintaining accommodation, especially in younger individuals.