Penetrating keratoplasty in the West Bank and Gaza

Four hundred and sixteen penetrating keratoplasties performed at St John Ophthalmic Hospital, Jerusalem, between January 1988 and July 1992 were reviewed retrospectively. The leading indications were keratoconus, microbial keratitis, trachomatous corneal scarring and herpes simplex keratitis. After a mean follow-up of 12.4 months (> 1-48 months) 79.8% of the grafts remained clear. The results in terms of graft clarity and visual improvement varied among the different diagnostic groups. No relationship was found between donor age, cadaver time or storage time and graft survival. This series demonstrates the viability of penetrating keratoplasty in this area of low economic development but highlights the need for strict patient selection to ensure optimal use of scarce donor material.