Histopathology of long-term Cardona keratoprosthesis: a case report.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To report histologic findings of a Cardona keratoprosthesis (KPro) in an eye enucleated after 14 years. METHODS: Case report of a 56-year-old male whose KPro was implanted following bilateral chemical burns. Following enucleation, histopathology by light and transmission electron microscopy was performed. RESULTS: The prosthesis was retained in the eye until clinical complications including retinal detachment necessitated enucleation after 14 years. Histopathology confirmed a total retinal detachment, necrosis of the detached retina, inflammation, and foreign-body reaction in the Dacron mesh. Calcification was not seen. CONCLUSION: PMMA is a suitable material for an optic and provides for good postoperative acuity. The complex skirt area may be predisposed to long-term inflammation. Less complicated surgery and a simple inert device with a flange with good mechanical and biologic integration may help in reducing postoperative complications.