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Evaluation of the McCarey-Kaufman technique of corneal storage
Abstract:
We present our evaluation of the McCarey-Kaufman (M-K) method of corneal storage. Sixty-six rabbit corneas were stored in the M-K medium at 4 C for periods of four, eight, and 12 days. Endothelial viability was assessed, using the specular microscope, the phenomenon of temperature reversal, and known inhibitors of endothelial cell function. Our results support those of McCarey and Kaufman, who showed that rabbit corneas will remain viable when stored by this technique. We were unable to support the contention that M-K medium-stored corneas are functionally superior to those corneas stored in moist chambers in the conventional manner. An unsuccessful attempt was made to correlate the function of the endothelium with either its morphological appearance as seen through the specular microscope or changes in ultrastructure as shown by transmission electron microscopy.
Insights
The McCarey-Kaufman (M-K) method effectively stores rabbit corneas for up to 12 days. However, M-K stored corneas were not found to be superior to those stored in moist chambers.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Transplantation
- Tissue Preservation
Background:
- Corneal storage is critical for successful transplantation.
- The McCarey-Kaufman (M-K) medium is a widely used storage solution.
- Evaluating storage methods ensures optimal tissue viability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the McCarey-Kaufman (M-K) method for corneal storage.
- To assess endothelial cell viability in rabbit corneas stored in M-K medium.
- To compare M-K storage with conventional moist chamber storage.
Main Methods:
- Stored 66 rabbit corneas in M-K medium at 4°C for 4, 8, and 12 days.
- Assessed endothelial viability using specular microscopy, temperature reversal, and cell function inhibitors.
- Examined morphological and ultrastructural changes via microscopy.
Main Results:
- Rabbit corneas remained viable when stored in M-K medium for up to 12 days.
- Endothelial viability was confirmed through multiple assessment methods.
- No functional superiority was found compared to moist chamber storage.
Conclusions:
- The McCarey-Kaufman (M-K) medium supports rabbit corneal viability for extended storage periods.
- M-K medium storage is a viable option for corneal preservation.
- Further research is needed to correlate endothelial function with morphological changes.