An infusion temporary keratoprosthesis for pars plana vitrectomy

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Innovation
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Pars plana vitrectomy is a common ophthalmic procedure.
• Eyes with opaque corneas present unique surgical challenges.
• Retinal complications can arise from standard surgical techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel temporary keratoprosthesis.
• To integrate an infusion cannula into the keratoprosthesis.
• To minimize retinal complications during vitrectomy in eyes with opaque corneas.

Main Methods:

• Modification of a wide-field temporary keratoprosthesis.
• Integration of a 20-gauge infusion cannula into the corneal flange.
• Cannula placement through the corneal cylinder periphery.

Main Results:

• Successful use in three cases without separate infusion.
• Elimination of risks from iatrogenic retinal breaks or dialyses.
• Reduced droplet condensation on the keratoprosthesis posterior surface.

Conclusions:

• A wide-field temporary keratoprosthesis with an integrated infusion cannula has been successfully developed.
• This device is suitable for pars plana vitrectomy in eyes with severe corneal opacity.
• The integrated cannula design effectively mitigates risks associated with traditional pars plana infusion.