![Development and Characterization of In Vitro Microvessel Network and Quantitative Measurements of Endothelial [Ca2+]i and Nitric Oxide Production](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront.jove.com%2FCDNSource%2Fteasers%2F54014.jpg&w=3840&q=50)
Preloaded DMEK With Endothelium Outward: A Multicenter Clinical Study Using DMEK Rapid Device
Gabriela Wojcik1, Mohit Parekh2, Vito Romano3,4
1International Centre for Ocular Physiopathology, Fondazione Banca degli Occhi del Veneto Onlus, Venice, Italy.
Cornea
|March 24, 2023
Summary
The DMEK Rapid device efficiently preloads Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) grafts for international shipping. This method is quick, easy, and effective for preparing grafts for transplantation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) is a surgical procedure to restore vision.
- Efficient graft preparation and transport are crucial for successful DMEK outcomes.
- Current methods for graft handling can be complex and time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the DMEK Rapid device for preloading DMEK grafts.
- To assess the device's efficacy in preparing grafts with an endothelium-outward orientation.
- To evaluate the feasibility of international shipping of preloaded DMEK grafts.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter retrospective clinical study involving 27 DMEK tissues.
- Grafts were preloaded using the DMEK Rapid device (8.25 mm) with endothelium outward.
- Preloaded grafts were shipped internationally and implanted; patient outcomes were monitored postoperatively.
Main Results:
- Surgical time averaged 6-25 minutes with no immediate complications.
- A low rebubbling rate (7/26) and one graft failure were observed.
- Significant improvements in corrected distance visual acuity and central corneal thickness were noted, despite a 27% endothelial cell loss.
Conclusions:
- The DMEK Rapid device is a quick, easy, and efficient tool for graft preparation.
- The device facilitates international shipping of DMEK grafts in the desired orientation.
- This validated method supports the advancement of DMEK procedures.
