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Corneal Donor Tissue Preparation for Descemet's Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty
Published on: September 17, 2014
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Cultured Human Corneal Endothelial Cell Injection for Endothelial Graft Failure After DSAEK.
Rintaro Ogino1, Mariko Shirane1, Taiyo Shijo1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, Japan.
JAMA Ophthalmology
|April 16, 2026
Summary
Cultured human corneal endothelial cell (HCEC) therapy shows promise for treating Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) graft failure. This regenerative approach improved vision and corneal thickness in a small case series.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Regenerative Medicine
- Corneal Surgery
Background:
- Endothelial graft failure after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) necessitates repeat keratoplasty, posing risks and donor dependency.
- Cultured human corneal endothelial cell (HCEC) therapy offers a potential regenerative alternative for endothelial dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical outcomes of cultured HCEC therapy in eyes experiencing endothelial graft failure post-DSAEK.
Main Methods:
- A prospective case series of 4 eyes with DSAEK graft failure treated via intracameral injection of cultured HCEC therapy.
- Outcomes assessed included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central corneal thickness (CCT), endothelial cell density (ECD), and intraocular pressure (IOP).
Main Results:
- Mean BCVA improved significantly from 1.93 to 0.46 logMAR (Snellen 20/1700 to 20/60) at 3 months.
- Mean CCT decreased from 900 µm to 641 µm, and ECD increased post-treatment.
- No major complications were observed, though two cases of cystoid macular edema were managed conservatively.
Conclusions:
- Cultured HCEC transplantation appears to be a feasible treatment option for DSAEK graft failure.
- Larger, controlled studies are needed to confirm these preliminary findings and establish long-term efficacy.
