Current techniques for improved visual results after penetrating keratoplasty

Although 90% of corneal transplants today are clear one year after transplantation, many are not truly successful due to factors such as high astigmatism, poor vision until sutures are removed one year postoperatively, or gradual corneal decompensation (late endothelial failure). This paper describes results using both a double running suture technique to provide early visual rehabilitation and serial specular microscopic examinations to maintain the greatest possible number of viable donor endothelial cells. These techniques can be easily used today by any corneal surgeon to improve the overall visual results after penetrating keratoplasty.