Impact of Donor, Recipient, and Graft Characteristics on Corneal Transplantation Outcomes.

Purpose: Although several donor, recipient, and graft characteristics have been studied in relation to corneal transplantation outcomes, no study to our knowledge has assessed the impact of donor cooling times on postoperative outcomes longitudinally. With only one corneal graft available for every 70 needed worldwide, this study seeks to identify any factors that could alleviate this shortage. Methods: Patients undergoing corneal transplantation at the Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital over a 2-year period were retrospectively studied. Study metrics included age, diabetic history, hypertensive history, endothelial cell density, death-to-preservation time (DTP), death-to-cooling time (DTC), and time-in-preservation (TIP). Postoperative transplantation outcomes, including best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 6- and 12-month follow-up visits, need for re-bubbling, and need for re-grafting, were assessed. Unadjusted univariate and adjusted multivariate binary logistic regressions were performed to determine the association of cooling and preservation parameters with corneal transplantation outcomes. Results: Among 111 transplants, our adjusted model found that DTC ≥4 hours was associated with significantly worse BCVA, but only at 6-month postoperative follow-up (odds ratio [OR]: 0.234; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.073-0.747; p = 0.014). By 12-month follow-up, DTC >4 hours was no longer associated with BCVA in a statistically significant manner (OR: 0.472; 95% CI: 0.135-1.653; p = 0.240). A similar trend was found at a DTC cutoff of ≥3 hours. None of the other studied parameters, including DTP, TIP, donor age, or medical history were significantly correlated with transplantation outcomes. Conclusion: Longer DTC or DTP did not have a statistically significant effect on corneal graft outcomes after one year, though short-term outcomes were improved in donor tissues with DTC below four hours. None of the other studied variables correlated with transplantation outcomes. Given the global shortage of corneal tissue, these findings should be considered when determining suitability for transplantation.

Topical Recombinant Human Nerve Growth Factor (Cenegermin) for Neurotrophic Keratopathy: A Multicenter Randomized Vehicle-Controlled Pivotal Trial.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical cenegermin (recombinant human nerve growth factor) in patients with neurotrophic keratopathy. DESIGN: Multicenter, randomized, double-masked, vehicle-controlled trial. PARTICIPANTS: Patients with neurotrophic persistent epithelial defect with or without stromal thinning. METHODS: The NGF0214 trial, conducted among 11 sites in the United States, randomized 48 patients 1:1 to cenegermin 20 µg/ml or vehicle eye drops, 6 drops daily for 8 weeks of masked treatment. Follow-up was 24 weeks. Safety was assessed in all patients who received study drug. Efficacy was assessed by intention to treat. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary end point was healing of the neurotrophic lesion (persistent epithelial defect or corneal ulcer) after 8 weeks of masked treatment. Masked central readers measured neurotrophic lesions in randomized clinical pictures, then assessed healing status conventionally (<0.5 mm of fluorescein staining in the greatest dimension of the lesion area) and conservatively (0-mm lesion staining and no other residual staining). Secondary variables included corneal healing at 4 weeks of masked treatment (key secondary end point), overall changes in lesion size, rates of disease progression, and changes in visual acuity and corneal sensitivity from baseline to week 8. RESULTS: Conventional assessment of corneal healing showed statistically significant differences at week 8: compared to 7 of 24 vehicle-treated patients (29.2%), 16 of 23 cenegermin-treated patients (69.6%) achieved less than 0.5 mm of lesion staining (+40.4%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 14.2%-66.6%; P = 0.006). Conservative assessment of corneal healing also reached statistical significance at week 8: compared to 4 of 24 vehicle-treated patients (16.7%), 15 of 23 cenegermin-treated patients (65.2%) achieved 0 mm of lesion staining and no other residual staining (+48.6%; 95% CI, 24.0%-73.1%; P < 0.001). Moreover, the conservative measure of corneal healing showed statistical significance at week 4 (key secondary end point). Compared to vehicle, cenegermin-treated patients showed statistically significant reductions in lesion size and disease progression rates during masked treatment. Cenegermin was well tolerated; adverse effects were mostly local, mild, and transient. CONCLUSIONS: Cenegermin treatment showed higher rates of corneal healing than vehicle in neurotrophic keratopathy associated with nonhealing corneal defects.

Outcomes of Descemet Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty in Eyes With Pars Plana Versus Anterior Chamber Glaucoma Drainage Devices.

PURPOSE: To compare visual outcomes and complications of Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) in eyes with anterior chamber (AC) versus pars plana (PP) glaucoma drainage devices (GDDs). METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted of 85 eyes that underwent DSEK and had previous or concurrent AC (37 eyes) or PP (48 eyes) GDD implantation. Outcome measures examined included visual acuity, donor dislocation rate, intraocular pressure, and secondary graft failure (SGF). RESULTS: The mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution vision improved from 1.50 (SD = 0.64) to 0.88 (SD = 0.71) in the AC group and from 1.37 (SD = 0.59) to 1.20 (SD = 0.76) in the PP group, with no significant group difference. Intraocular pressure did not differ between the groups preoperatively but was higher in the AC group compared with the PP group postoperatively [mean (SD) 14.5 (6.28) versus 11.5 (5.54) mm Hg, P = 0.03]. Graft dislocation occurred in 35.1% and 29.2% of eyes in the AC and PP groups, respectively. SGF occurred in 18.9% and 41.7% with median time 17.1 (interquartile range [IQR] 4.6-32.1) and 27.9 (IQR 15.1-34.7) months to development in the AC and PP groups, respectively. Multivariable logistic and Cox proportional hazards regression models found no statistically significant factors (tube location, age, sex, concurrent tube revision, new tube insertion) associated with either donor dislocation or SGF. CONCLUSIONS: There was no reduction in donor dislocation or SGF in eyes with PP compared with AC GDD, despite the decreased proximity of the shunt from the endothelial graft. Overall, GDD has a significantly adverse effect on long-term graft survival and close follow-up is warranted.

Clinical Outcomes of Descemet Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty in Eyes With Glaucoma Drainage Devices.

PRECIS: In this retrospective case series of 85 eyes, 31.8% developed graft failure and graft survival was 50% at 3 years. The presence of an aqueous shunt has a significantly adverse effect on long-term graft survival. PURPOSE: To report visual outcomes and complications of Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) in eyes with glaucoma drainage devices (GDD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted of 122 procedures of 85 eyes of 83 patients who underwent DSEK and had prior or concurrent GDD implantation. Mean follow-up was 36.5±31.4 months. Patients with postoperative follow-up of <3 months were excluded from analysis. Outcome measures examined included visual acuity, donor dislocation rate, intraocular pressure (IOP), and graft survival. RESULTS: The mean logMAR vision improved to 1.07 postoperatively from 1.43 preoperatively, with 61% of eyes experiencing improved visual acuity. Graft dislocation occurred in 27 (31.8%) eyes and required repeat injection of air in the anterior chamber. Primary graft failure occurred in 2 (2.4%) eyes, whereas secondary graft failure occurred in 27 (31.8%) of eyes, with an average time of 24.3 months for development. Estimated survival rates at 1, 2, and 3 years were 89%, 78%, and 50%, respectively. Escalation of IOP occurred in 21 (24.7%) eyes postoperatively, where 14 eyes underwent medical therapy and 7 eyes required surgical intervention/laser for IOP control. CONCLUSIONS: DSEK after GDD is a viable alternative to treat endothelial dysfunction, with the majority of patients achieving visual improvement. However, aqueous shunt implantation has a significantly adverse effect on long-term graft survival and close follow-up is warranted.

Postoperative Endothelial Cell Density Is Associated with Late Endothelial Graft Failure after Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty.

PURPOSE: To determine whether preoperative endothelial cell density (ECD) and postoperative ECD after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) are associated with late endothelial graft failure (LEGF) in the Cornea Preservation Time Study (CPTS). DESIGN: Cohort study within a multicenter, randomized clinical trial. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 1007 individuals (1223 study eyes), mean age 70 years, undergoing DSAEK for Fuchs' dystrophy (94% of eyes) or pseudophakic or aphakic corneal edema (PACE) (6% of eyes) and followed for up to 5 years. METHODS: Central ECD was determined by a central image analysis reading center. Preoperative ECD was determined for 1209 eyes that did not fail and 14 eyes that experienced LEGF. The ECD at 6 and 12 months after DSAEK, the change in ECD from preoperative to 6 and 12 months, surgeon-reported operative complications, and postoperative graft dislocation were investigated for an association with LEGFs unrelated to other postoperative events. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to assess associations. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Late endothelial graft failure and its associations with pre- and postoperative ECD and operative complications. RESULTS: The cumulative probability of LEGF was 1.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.8%-2.4%). Median (interquartile range [IQR]) preoperative ECDs were similar for eyes with LEGF (2523; 2367-3161) cells/mm2) and eyes without failure (2727; 2508-2973) cells/mm2) (P = 0.34). The ECD at 6 months was associated with LEGF (P < 0.001) in time-to-event analyses, whereas preoperative ECD was not (P = 0.55). The cumulative incidence (95% CI) of LEGF was 6.5% (3.0%, 14.0%) for 97 grafts with a 6-month ECD less than 1200 cells/mm2, 0.3% (0.0%, 2.4%) for 310 grafts with a 6-month ECD between 1200 and 2000 cells/mm2, and 0.6% (0.1%, 2.7%) for 589 grafts with a 6-month ECD greater than 2000 cells/mm2. In multivariable analyses, ECD at 6 months and operative complications were both associated with LEGF (P = 0.002 and P = 0.01, respectively), whereas graft dislocation was not (P = 0.61). CONCLUSIONS: In eyes undergoing DSAEK, preoperative ECD is unrelated to LEGF, whereas lower ECD at 6 months is associated with LEGF. Early endothelial cell loss after DSAEK and intraoperative complications should be minimized to improve graft survival.

Clinical Outcomes and Intraocular Pressure Control After Scleral-glued Intraocular Lens Insertion in Eyes With Pseudoexfoliation.

PURPOSE: To analyze clinical outcomes and intraocular pressure control following scleral-glued intraocular lens (IOL) fixation in eyes with pseudoexfoliation (PXF). METHODS: A retrospective chart review and outcome analysis was performed on a series of eyes undergoing glue-assisted, scleral-fixated (scleral-glued) IOL insertion in the setting of PXF and poor or absent capsular support. RESULTS: In total, 28 eyes were included in the study. The indications for scleral-glued IOL fixation included late endocapsular IOL dislocation (21/28, 75%), exchange for iris-fixated IOL due to complication (4/28, 14%), subluxed crystalline lens (2/28, 7%), and aphakia after complicated cataract surgery (1/28, 4%). In total, 15/28 (54%) eyes had diagnosed preexisting glaucoma at the time of scleral-glued surgery. The most common postoperative complication was ocular hypertension requiring escalation of medical management, which occurred in 8/28 (29%) eyes. At final follow-up, corrected distance visual acuity was equivalent to or improved from preoperative measurements in 25/28 (89%) eyes. CONCLUSIONS: The scleral-glued surgery is a good option for fixating an IOL in eyes with PXF and poor zonular integrity or absent capsular support. Special attention should be placed on intraocular pressure control following surgery, which can be less predictable in PXF eyes with or without preexisting glaucoma.

Descemet Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty in Eyes With Previous Glaucoma Surgery.

PURPOSE: To evaluate visual outcomes and complications after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) in patients with previous glaucoma surgery. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted of 129 procedures in 102 eyes of 96 patients who underwent DSAEK and previous glaucoma surgery at New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mt Sinai. The mean length of follow-up was 29.1 ± 25.5 months. Patients with postoperative follow-up duration of less than 3 months were excluded from analysis. Intraoperative and postoperative complications, postoperative course, and visual outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: Graft dislocation occurred in 46 eyes (35.7%) and 38 eyes required repeat injection of air in the anterior chamber. Primary graft failure occurred in 3 eyes (2.3%), early graft failure in 20 eyes (15.5%), and secondary graft failure developed in 29 eyes (22.5%). There was a statistically significant increase in secondary graft failure in patients with previous aqueous shunt implantation compared with eyes with previous trabeculectomy (P = 0.03). Escalation of glaucoma therapy was needed medically in 25 eyes (24.5%), and 8 eyes (7.8%) required additional surgical intervention. CONCLUSIONS: There is a significant incidence of graft dislocation and graft failure after DSAEK in eyes with previous glaucoma surgery. In particular, aqueous shunt surgery compared with trabeculectomy may decrease long-term graft survival, and close follow-up is warranted.

Facilitating cortical aspiration after insertion of a capsular tension ring.

UNLABELLED: We describe a simple, effective technique to prevent the cortical entrapment that can occur after a capsular tension ring (CTR) is implanted during phacoemulsification. Before the epinucleus has been removed, the blunt tip of an ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) cannula is burrowed centrally in the cortical/epinuclear plate and OVD is injected as the cannula is advanced. The cannula is turned superiorly and dissection continued to the lens equator. The cleavage plane is extended for approximately 2 clock hours in the direction of the intended CTR insertion. The CTR is then inserted below the cortical/epinuclear plate. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: None of the authors has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

Outcomes of glued foldable intraocular lens implantation in eyes with preexisting complications and combined surgical procedures.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the visual outcomes and complications of glued foldable intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in patients with a wide range of ocular pathologies and/or having combined surgical procedures. SETTING: New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA. DESIGN: Retrospective case series. METHODS: A chart review was conducted of all glued foldable IOL procedures performed in eyes with absent or insufficient capsule support. Patients with a postoperative follow-up less than 3 months were excluded from analysis. Intraoperative and postoperative complications, the postoperative course, and visual and refractive outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: Sixty-five eyes (64 patients) were evaluated over a mean follow-up of 9.1 months ± 6.2 (SD). Ocular comorbidities were present in 98.5% of eyes, and 95.4% had additional concurrent surgical procedures. There was a statistically significant improvement in corrected distance visual acuity (P = .046), with 89.2% of eyes achieving better or equal vision postoperatively. Intraoperative complications included ocular hemorrhage (10.8%), haptic deformation (10.8%), and haptic breakage (1.5%). Postoperative complications included elevated intraocular pressure (13.8%), optic capture (12.3%), persistent anterior chamber inflammation (6.2%), IOL tilt (4.6%), cystoid macular edema (3.1%), recurrent ocular hemorrhage (3.1%), and retinal detachment (1.5%). CONCLUSION: The glued foldable IOL technique resulted in favorable visual outcomes but with a moderate risk for IOL-related and other postoperative complications in eyes with complex ocular comorbidities having combined surgical procedures. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

Detection of herpes simplex virus type 1 in failed descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty grafts.

PURPOSE: To determine the prevalence of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) DNA in failed Descemet membrane stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) grafts. METHODS: A retrospective interventional case series of patients with DSAEK graft failure treated at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary between January 2009 and July 2012 was performed. Repeat DSAEK, penetrating keratoplasty, or keratoprosthesis procedure was subsequently performed on eyes with failed grafts. All failed grafts were examined immunohistochemically and with qualitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for HSV-1 DNA. In HSV-1-positive cases, corneoscleral donor rims from the original DSAEK procedures were also examined immunohistochemically and with polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: Fifty-one failed DSAEK grafts from 50 eyes of 49 patients were identified. Indications for DSAEK were pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (28/51, 55%), Fuchs corneal endothelial dystrophy (12/51, 23%), failed penetrating keratoplasty (7/51, 14%), corneal decompensation from glaucoma (2/51, 4%), herpetic endotheliitis (1/51, 2%), and failed DSAEK (1/51, 2%). Forty-three grafts (83%) were primary DSAEK graft failure. HSV-1 DNA was isolated from 2 of 51 failed DSAEK grafts (4.0%). The corresponding corneoscleral donor rims did not demonstrate the presence of HSV-1. CONCLUSIONS: Based on our results, HSV-1 infection plays a minor role in DSAEK graft failure. The data suggest that recipient reactivation, rather than donor transmission, plays a role in HSV infection.

Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty after failed penetrating keratoplasty.

PURPOSE: To report the rate of graft dislocation, surgical anatomic success, and postsurgical complications associated with Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) after previous primary failed penetrating keratoplasty (PK). METHODS: Institutional review board-approved, single-center, retrospective chart review study of 30 eyes of 30 patients with prior failed PK who underwent DSAEK with a minimum of 3 months follow-up. Primary outcomes measured included rates of anatomic success and failure, postoperative complications, lenticle size, visual acuity, intraocular pressure change, and a report of external factors that may affect success. RESULTS: Thirty eyes of 30 patients were identified. The primary dislocation rate was 16.7%. Five primary DSAEKs detached; 1 was successfully rebubbled in the office, 2 had repeat successful DSAEKs, and 2 failed on a second attempt and had a subsequent PK. Despite successful anatomic attachment, 1 eye had primary graft failure, 3 that cleared initially failed within 6 months, and 1 that successfully cleared had subsequent graft rejection resulting in failure at 6 months. The 2 eyes requiring PK were excluded from the visual outcomes analysis, leaving 28 eyes with successfully attached lenticles. At 3 months postoperatively, of the 28 eyes, 19 showed an improvement in visual acuity, 6 had no change in vision from preoperative data, and 1 had worsening of vision (anatomic attachment but endothelial failure). Two of the 28 eyes had no data at that time point. CONCLUSIONS: DSAEK eyes after failed PK demonstrated improved vision with a low complication rate in a majority of patients. The graft dislocation rate and postoperative complications rates are comparable with the primary DSAEK dislocation rates in our own published series and in the literature.

Graft rejection following descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty: features, risk factors, and outcomes.

PURPOSE: To investigate the clinical features, risk factors, and treatment outcomes following immunologic graft rejection in eyes that have undergone Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). DESIGN: Retrospective case review. METHODS: The charts for 353 DSAEK procedures performed at a single clinical practice at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary from August 2006 to November 2010 were reviewed. Cases with at least 3 months follow-up were included. Outcome measures included rates of graft rejection, clinical findings, treatment outcomes, and risk factor analysis. RESULTS: Thirty of 353 DSAEKs developed graft rejection (8.5%). Kaplan-Meier rate of rejection was 6.0% at 1 year (n = 175), 14.0% at 2 years (n = 79), and 22.0% at 3 years (n = 39). Rejection episodes occurred between 0.8 and 34 months. Clinical findings included anterior chamber cells, keratic precipitates, endothelial rejection line, and host-donor interface vascularization. Risk factors for development of graft rejection were cessation of postoperative steroid (hazard ratio 5.49, P < .0001) and black race (hazard ratio 2.71, P = .02). Recipient age, sex, surgical indication, glaucoma, postoperative steroid response, corneal neovascularization or peripheral anterior synechiae, graft size, prior keratoplasty in fellow eye, and concurrent or subsequent procedures were not associated with graft rejection. Twenty-two out of 30 rejection episodes (73.3%) resolved with steroid treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Graft rejection is an important complication following DSAEK. In contrast to penetrating keratoplasty, rejection following DSAEK is almost exclusively endothelial. Among risk factors traditionally associated with graft rejection, cessation of topical steroids was most significant. Prompt recognition and treatment of DSAEK rejection can lead to favorable outcomes.

Removal of epithelial ingrowth via central perforating wound tract 6 years post LASIK.

BACKGROUND: The purpose was to report a case of a novel approach for the removal of central interface epithelial ingrowth caused by a perforating corneal injury 6 years after laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: Access to a large central area of epithelial ingrowth under a LASIK flap was achieved through the wound tract from a perforating corneal injury. Suturing of the central LASIK flap in a similar manner commonly carried out peripherally was then performed to prevent recurrent epithelial ingrowth. RESULTS: The offending epithelial ingrowth was removed with no recurrence over a 1-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: This is, to our knowledge, the first reported case of central epithelial ingrowth removal from a LASIK interface by a perforating injury wound tract.

Flap lift and repair of postoperative laser in situ keratomileusis complications at the slitlamp.

UNLABELLED: We describe a technique to treat flap complications after laser in situ keratomileusis while seated at the slitlamp biomicroscope. After topical anesthesia is applied to the cornea, a blunt corneal spatula is used to reflect the flap only to the extent necessary for epithelial debridement. A corneal rake or spatula is then used to remove retained epithelial cells from the stromal bed and underside of the flap. The epithelium is then debrided 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm outside the flap gutter. The increased depth perception with a slit beam greatly improves visualization and identification of the presence of residual epithelial cells or leftover debris after scraping. The slit beam also aids in proper repositioning of the flap after the procedure. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

Endophthalmitis after descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty with concave-oriented dislocation on slit-lamp optical coherence topography.

PURPOSE: To present the first reported case of Descemet membrane stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK)-associated endophthalmitis with concave dislocation on slit-lamp optical coherence topography (SL-OCT). METHODS: An 86-year-old man underwent DSEK for corneal decompensation secondary to prior surgery. On all postoperative visits, a slit-lamp examination and SL-OCT were performed. RESULTS: On the first postoperative day, the lenticle was dislocated in a concave configuration as imaged with the SL-OCT. On the second postoperative day, the patient had eye pain, nausea, and increased intraocular pressure. On SL-OCT imaging, the concave configuration and fibrin stranding were imaged. With intraocular pressure lowering, the patient's pain subsided, and he was scheduled for a lenticle refloat the following day. The next day, endophthalmitis was diagnosed secondary to exuberant purulent inflammation. At surgery, the lenticle was removed, cultures were obtained, and pars plana vitrectomy and intravitreal injections were administered. Intraoperative cultures were positive for heavy growth of Streptococcus pneumoniae. CONCLUSIONS: Endophthalmitis is a potential complication for any intraocular procedure including DSEK. SL-OCT imaging postoperatively may reveal concave lenticle configuration and subtle anterior chamber fibrin stranding may be early sign of endophthalmitis.

Visually significant and nonsignificant complications arising from Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty.

PURPOSE: To examine the complications encountered after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) at one institution. DESIGN: Retrospective case review. METHODS: The first 126 consecutive DSAEKs done at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary from March 1, 2006 to March 1, 2008 were reviewed. A total of 126 eyes of 113 patients underwent DSAEK. All cases were included regardless of outcome. All complications intraoperatively and postoperatively were recorded. RESULTS: Graft detachment was the most common complication, occurring in 22 eyes (17.5%); 17 of these (77%) were successfully repositioned. Idiopathic graft failure occurred in 15 eyes (6%). Other visually significant complications included graft rejection (2 eyes), choroidal effusion (2 eyes), epithelial ingrowth (2 eyes), endophthalmitis (1 eye), pupillary block (1 eye), and suture abscess (1 eye). Twenty-four eyes had non-visually significant complications including decentered lenticles, interface fibers, partial peripheral detachments, retained Descemet membrane, and eccentric trephination. CONCLUSIONS: While DSAEK is a viable alternative to penetrating keratoplasty, serious complications may still occur postoperatively. While certain rare complications like endophthalmitis, epithelial ingrowth, and suture abscess may affect vision, more common complications such as decentered lenticles and partial peripheral detachments are less likely to affect visual outcome.

In situ nuclear disassembly: efficient phacoemulsification without nuclear rotation using lateral sweep sculpting and in situ cracking techniques.

We describe an in situ nuclear disassembly technique using a simplified form of sculpting and cracking, enhanced by phacoemulsification technology with a Kelman-style tip. The technique does not require mobilization or rotation of the nucleus within the capsular bag, and hydrodissection is optional. The technique requires a Kelman-style curved tip and Kuglen hook and takes advantage of the versatility of the curved phacoemulsification needle for sculpting and cracking. Since in situ nuclear disassembly requires no rotation of the nucleus for extraction, it is useful in cases in which zonules are compromised or the surgeon suspects posterior lenticonus and the potential for loss of integrity of the posterior capsule.

Failed descemet-stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty grafts: a clinicopathologic analysis.

PURPOSE: To describe the clinicopathologic findings in failed Descemet-stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) grafts. DESIGN: Retrospective, interventional case series. SETTING: New York Eye and Ear Infirmary. STUDY POPULATION: Twenty-one patients with 22 failed DSAEK grafts treated between March 1, 2006 and February 1, 2008. INTERVENTION: Repeat DSAEK or penetrating keratoplasty were performed in the eyes with failed grafts. All failed grafts were examined histopathologically. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Histopathologic parameters studied in failed DSAEK grafts included endothelial cell count, interface characteristics, retrocorneal membrane formation, inflammation, and immunoreactivity for herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) antigen. RESULTS: DSAEK failure was strongly associated with postoperative lenticle dislocation. Graft failure was primary in 19 DSAEKs and secondary to rejection, eccentric trephination with epithelial ingrowth, or bacterial infection in the remaining 3. All failed grafts demonstrated endothelial hypocellularity and stromal edema. Additional findings included stromal inflammation (68%), interface fibrosis (50%), retrocorneal membrane (36%), unplanned retention of Descemet membrane (14%), immunoreactivity for HSV-1 (14%), paucicellular stroma (14%), and uneven trephination with epithelial ingrowth (5%). CONCLUSIONS: Most DSAEK failures are secondary to endothelial cell loss. Other contributing factors include interface fibrosis, retrocorneal membrane formation, retained host Descemet membrane, uneven trephination, epithelial ingrowth, graft rejection, and infection.

The use of postoperative slit-lamp optical coherence tomography to predict primary failure in descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty.

PURPOSE: To determine if central donor lenticle thickness as measured by slit-lamp optical coherence tomography (SL OCT; Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany) is predictive of primary donor failure in patients undergoing Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). DESIGN: Retrospective cross-sectional study. METHODS: Eighty-four patients who underwent DSAEK surgery by 2 surgeons (D.C.R. and J.A.S.) were enrolled. At each postoperative visit (postoperative day 1, week 1, month 1, and month 2), an SL OCT scan was obtained. Statistical differences in SL OCT measurements of successful and failed DSAEK procedures were measured using the Student t test. A successful DSAEK surgery was defined as having an anatomically attached, clear recipient corneal stroma and donor lenticle compatible with good vision 2 months after surgery. A failed DSAEK surgery was defined as an attached donor lenticle with SL evidence of corneal edema and thickening visible at 2 months or more. RESULTS: Ninety-three eyes of 84 consecutive patients who underwent DSAEK surgery also underwent postoperative SL OCT. After 2 months of follow-up, 82 (88%) procedures were successful and 11 (12%) procedures were failures. The average donor lenticle thickness in successful DSAEK eyes was 314 +/- 128 microm on postoperative day 1 as compared with failed DSAEK eyes, which averaged 532 +/- 259 microm (P = .0013). This was independent regardless of whether the lenticle was attached on the first postoperative visit. Seventy-nine (98%) successful DSAEK eyes had a lenticle thickness of < or = 350 microm at the 1-week visit. All of the failed DSAEK eyes (11 eyes) had a lenticle thickness > or = 350 microm at the 1-week postoperative visit. Statistically significant differences in SL OCT thickness measurements were seen between successful and failed DSAEK cases at all examinations after postoperative week 1. CONCLUSIONS: Corneal thickness measurements made with SL OCT are an important predictor of DSAEK failure in both attached and detached lenticles within the first week of surgery. DSAEK lenticle thickness of 350 microm or less at 1 week had a predictability of success of more than 98%.