Current concepts and recent trends in endothelial keratoplasty

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Surgery
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Corneal decompensation pathophysiology is under active research.
• Pharmacotherapy advancements are reducing the need for endothelial keratoplasty (EK).
• EK techniques are evolving towards thinner grafts and optimized visual outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent developments in endothelial keratoplasty (EK).
• To provide a comprehensive overview of EK indications, contraindications, and techniques.
• To address challenges and tailored strategies for complex EK cases.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on endothelial keratoplasty.
• Analysis of evolving surgical techniques and donor tissue advancements.
• Discussion of clinical scenarios and patient-specific factors influencing outcomes.

Main Results:

• EK techniques have progressed, improving donor tissue utilization and visual outcomes.
• Pharmacotherapy is reducing EK indications.
• Complex cases, such as those with prior surgery or glaucoma, present challenges requiring specialized approaches.

Conclusions:

• Endothelial keratoplasty remains crucial for corneal clarity restoration.
• Tailored surgical strategies are essential for managing complex EK cases.
• Ongoing research and technique refinement promise further improvements in EK outcomes.