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Published on: July 22, 2022
The first-in-human implantation of the CorNeat keratoprosthesis
Irit Bahar1,2, Olga Reitblat3,4, Eitan Livny3,4
1Department of Ophthalmology, Rabin Medical Center, Petach Tikva, Israel. iritbahar@gmail.com.
Objectives:
To describe the first clinical implantation of the CorNeat™ keratoprosthesis, which utilizes a polymeric scaffold for biointegration within ocular tissue.
Methods:
The CorNeat keratoprosthesis was implanted in the right eye of a patient with bilateral corneal opacification and neovascularization secondary to multiple failed grafts. The following surgical technique was used: 360 degree peritomy; epithelial scraping and corneal marking; pre-placement of three corneo-scleral sutures through the implant; central trephination using a 7 mm trephine and host cornea removal; keratoprosthesis placement and sutures tightening while fitting the corneal edge into the posterior groove of the CorNeat keratoprosthesis; and repositioning of the conjunctiva over the implant skirt and fixation with sutures and Fibrin sealant.
Results:
Twelve months postoperatively visual acuity improved to 1/16 from hand movement. The keratoprosthesis was properly positioned. Tactile intraocular pressure was assessed as normal. Regional, mostly nasal, conjunctival retraction of 4-5 mm over the nano-fibre skirt was seen throughout follow-up. The anterior chamber was quiet and well-formed. No other postoperative complications were observed.
Conclusion:
This initial case may imply a potential breakthrough in the treatment of corneal disease not amenable to standard corneal transplant. Long follow-up and additional implantations are desired to prove the long-term safety and efficacy of this device.
