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Author Spotlight: Advancing Corneal Innervation Research Through Innovative Models
Published on: December 8, 2023
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Corneal Neurotization: Preoperative Patient Workup and Surgical Decision-making
Simeon C Daeschler1,2, Jyh Haur Woo3,4,5, Isra Hussein3
1From the SickKids Research Institute, Neuroscience and Mental Health Program, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open
|October 13, 2023
Summary
Sensory nerve transfers restore corneal sensation and repair in neurotrophic keratopathy. A standardized, interdisciplinary approach optimizes patient selection and surgical decisions for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurosurgery
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Sensory nerve transfers to the cornea treat neurotrophic keratopathy by restoring sensation and epithelial repair.
- Surgical techniques are reported, but interdisciplinary management, preoperative assessment, and decision-making need more focus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a standardized, interdisciplinary preoperative workup for corneal neurotization.
- To guide patient selection and surgical decision-making based on 10-year experience.
Main Methods:
- A 10-year experience with 32 eyes of patients with neurotrophic keratopathy.
- Standardized interdisciplinary preoperative assessment including medical history, ophthalmic evaluation, and facial sensory donor nerve mapping.
Main Results:
- Systematic nerve mapping identified donor nerves for light touch and pain modalities.
- The approach facilitated evidence-based patient selection, optimal surgery timing, and donor nerve identification.
Conclusions:
- Interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial for successful corneal neurotization.
- A practical roadmap is provided for optimizing patient selection and surgical decisions in neurotrophic keratopathy treatment.
