Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2025
11:20
Retinal Pigment Epithelium Transplantation in a Non-human Primate Model for Degenerative Retinal Diseases
Published on: June 14, 2021
3.7K
DMEK Surgical Strategy in Aphakic and Vitrectomized Eyes
José Luis Güell1,2,3, Martina Aguilera Zúñiga1, Hugo Alonso-Reyes1,4
1Cornea and Refractive Surgery Unit, Instituto de Microcirugía Ocular (IMO), Barcelona, 08035, Spain.
European Journal of Ophthalmology
|January 3, 2025
Summary
This study introduces a new Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) technique for challenging eyes. The method simplifies graft unfolding, reducing surgery time and improving outcomes in complex corneal transplantation cases.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Endothelial Keratoplasty
Background:
- Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) is a highly successful endothelial keratoplasty technique.
- Challenges remain in DMEK for eyes with aphakia or prior vitrectomy.
- Existing DMEK methods may be time-consuming in complex ocular conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel DMEK technique for challenging eyes.
- To improve surgical efficiency and postoperative results in complex DMEK cases.
- To offer a simplified graft unfolding method for difficult DMEK scenarios.
Main Methods:
- A small air bubble is injected beneath the Descemet membrane graft in the anterior chamber.
- One edge of the graft is grasped with forceps.
- The external corneal surface is tapped to unroll the graft.
Main Results:
- The novel technique consistently reduced surgical time.
- Excellent anatomical outcomes with complete membrane attachment were achieved.
- The method proved effective in complex cases, including aphakic and vitrectomized eyes.
Conclusions:
- The described technique offers a valuable alternative for DMEK in complex eyes.
- This simplified approach enhances surgical outcomes and efficiency.
- It addresses limitations of current DMEK methods in challenging patient populations.
