Abstract
4/2010
vol. 112
Original paper
Results of tectonic epikeratoplasty in the management of corneal perforations
- Z Kliniki Okulistyki Uniwersytetu Medycznego w Lublinie
Online publish date: 2010/12/22
Purpose: To present therapeutic application of tectonic epikeratoplasty as biological patch in severe ocular surface disorders.
Material and methods: Full thickness corneo-scleral transplants, 14 mm in diameter were used in 67 operations of 41 patients
with corneal perforation or descemetocele. (14 women and 27 men), in the period 1998-2008. The mean age of patients was
55.2 ± 17.7 years (range 15-82). The transplants were sutured over the limbus or the scleral rim and was implanted under the
conjunctiva after 360° peritomy. Donor tissue unsuitable for penetrating keratoplasty because of poor endothelium or corneal
scarring, was obtained from Lublin Eye Bank.
Results: We observed closing of the perforation in all cases. Healing of the ulceration with scar formation and new vessels ingrowth was noted. In some eyes repeated epikeratoplasties were performed.
Conclusions: Tectonic epikeratoplasty is a safe and simple method of treatment of corneal perforations. It provides a biological
patch stimulating the healing of corneal defects. It gives time for systemic treatment before further ocular surface reconstructive procedures can be performed.
Material and methods: Full thickness corneo-scleral transplants, 14 mm in diameter were used in 67 operations of 41 patients
with corneal perforation or descemetocele. (14 women and 27 men), in the period 1998-2008. The mean age of patients was
55.2 ± 17.7 years (range 15-82). The transplants were sutured over the limbus or the scleral rim and was implanted under the
conjunctiva after 360° peritomy. Donor tissue unsuitable for penetrating keratoplasty because of poor endothelium or corneal
scarring, was obtained from Lublin Eye Bank.
Results: We observed closing of the perforation in all cases. Healing of the ulceration with scar formation and new vessels ingrowth was noted. In some eyes repeated epikeratoplasties were performed.
Conclusions: Tectonic epikeratoplasty is a safe and simple method of treatment of corneal perforations. It provides a biological
patch stimulating the healing of corneal defects. It gives time for systemic treatment before further ocular surface reconstructive procedures can be performed.
Integrated with