The predictive value of anterior segment optical coherence tomography for postoperative corneal edema in cataract patients.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the predictive value of anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) for postoperative corneal edema in cataract patients. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of 144 cataract patients from December 2020 to December 2021 was conducted. Patients were divided into edema eyes (84 cases) and observation (60 cases) group based on postoperative corneal edema occurrence. Relevant indicators were compared between groups. Logistic regression identified risk factors for postoperative corneal edema. Receiver operating characteristic curves evaluated the predictive value. RESULTS: The edema eyes group had significantly higher postoperative central corneal thickness (CCT) and lower postoperative endothelial cell density (ECD) than the observation group (P < 0.05). The edema eyes group also had significantly lower preoperative ECD, anterior chamber depth (ACD), anterior chamber angle (ACA), and preoperative lens position (LP) than the observation group (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that preoperative ECD, ACD, ACA, and LP were independent risk factors for postoperative corneal edema (P < 0.05), all of which also showed good predictive value for postoperative corneal edema, with areas under the curve (AUCs) of 0.854, 0.812, 0.791, and 0.778, respectively, under the ROC curve analysis. CONCLUSION: AS-OCT can provide useful information for predicting postoperative corneal edema in cataract patients. Preoperative ECD, preoperative ACD, preoperative ACA, and preoperative LP are important parameters that can be measured by AS-OCT and used as risk factors for postoperative corneal edema.

Management of Acute Corneal Hydrops Using Compression Sutures and Intracameral Air Injection.

BACKGROUND Acute corneal hydrops, a rare complication of keratoconus, is characterized by sudden onset of corneal stroma edema. It typically manifests as an acute decrease in visual acuity, accompanied by pain and photophobia. Prompt recognition and interventions are critical for effective resolution of hydrops and prevention of corneal vascularization. Herein, we present a case of a patient with keratoconus who developed corneal hydrops, successfully managed using full-thickness compression sutures and intracameral air injection. CASE REPORT A woman in her early 30s, with a history of keratoconus, presented with symptoms of acute hydrops in her left eye. On presentation, best corrected visual acuity was hand motion. Slit-lamp examination revealed marked corneal edema with multiple stromal clefts. The decision was made to perform full-thickness compression sutures combined with intracameral air injection to expedite edema resolution and prevent neovascularization. Three full-thickness sutures were placed across Descemet membrane breaks, and an air bubble was left, filling 50% of the anterior chamber. At 3-month follow-up, a clear, compact cornea was noted, with no evidence of vascularization. The patient was scheduled for penetrating keratoplasty for visual rehabilitation. CONCLUSIONS The combination of full-thickness compression sutures and intracameral air seems to be an effective and safe method for preventing corneal angiogenesis following hydrops. As corneal scaring is often an inevitable complication of acute corneal hydrops, keratoplasty is necessary for improving visual acuity. Hence, the prevention of corneal vascularization should be the major aim in the management of corneal hydrops to ensure successful keratoplasty.

Mini-Scleral Lens: An Effective Mode of Visual Rehabilitation in Eyes With Resolved Hydrops.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the visual outcome of mini-scleral contact lenses (MSLs) in keratoconus following the resolution of acute hydrops. METHODS: This was a prospective observational case series of patients of healed hydrops in keratoconus fitted with an MSL (Keracare, Acculens, Lakewood, CO) who were managed for acute hydrops medically or surgically at least 3 months prior. Uncorrected visual acuity, best spectacles-corrected visual acuity, best lens-corrected visual acuity, topographic indices, keratometric indices, contact lens parameters, and ocular aberrometric changes were evaluated. All patients were followed up for at least 3 months. RESULTS: Eighteen eyes of 17 patients were included in the analysis. The mean post-hydrops topographic values of the eyes included flat keratometric value (K1) 64.93±10.88 (range 44.30-93.40) diopters (D), steep keratometric value (K2) 70.41±10.92 D (range 45.8-98.6 D), and Kmax of 79.53±17.73 D (range 50-130.2). The final mini-scleral lens's mean dioptric power was -8.56±3.96 D (range -18 to -4). Visual acuity significantly improved from post-hydrops resolution uncorrected visual acuity of 1.5±0.71 logMAR to 0.79±0.18 logMAR best spectacles-corrected visual acuity to 0.27±0.01 logMAR best lens-corrected visual acuity ( P -value <0.0001). Similarly, there was considerable improvement in corneal aberrometric values after wearing an MSL. At the 3-month follow-up, 15 patients (16 eyes) were compliant to contact lens use with a minimum of 6 to 8 hr daily while two patients (2 eyes) were poorly compliant. CONCLUSIONS: A MSL is a valuable option for visual rehabilitation in keratoconus following the resolution of acute hydrops.

Post-Penetrating Keratoplasty Assessment of Endothelial Function With a Scleral Lens Challenge.

ABSTRACT: Patients who have undergone penetrating keratoplasty may have corneal edema because of endothelial cell dysfunction. Scleral lens wear may exacerbate edema, particularly if lens fit is suboptimal. Distinguishing between edema because of inherent endothelial cell dysfunction and swelling because of scleral lens-related hypoxia can be challenging. It is necessary, however, to identify the most likely cause of increased corneal thickness to determine whether the patient simply needs refitting for a different lens design or needs additional surgical intervention. This case report describes the utility of corneal tomographic imaging before and after scleral lens wear both to estimate endothelial cell function and to direct decisions when designing a scleral lens for a post-transplant eye.

The ROCK inhibitor netarsudil in the treatment of corneal endothelial decompensation caused by corneal endotheliitis: A case report and literature review.

Proper hydration and the clarity of the cornea are maintained through the crucial function of the corneal endothelium. Inflammation of the corneal endothelium, known as endotheliitis, can disrupt endothelial function, resulting in alterations to vision. Corneal endotheliitis is characterised by corneal oedema, the presence of keratic precipitates, inflammation within the anterior chamber, and occasionally, limbal injection, neovascularisation, and the concurrent or overlapping presence of uveitis. The aetiology of this condition is diverse, predominantly viral, but it may also be drug-induced, result from bacterial or fungal infections, be associated with systemic diseases and procedures, or remain idiopathic with no identifiable cause. To date, no standardised protocol for the treatment of this ocular disease exists, and in severe cases, corneal transplantation may be required. A 31-year-old male was transferred to our hospital for the management of corneal endothelial decompensation resulting from corneal endotheliitis. Hormonal therapy and antiviral medications proved ineffective, rendering the patient a candidate for corneal transplantation. As a final measure, treatment with the ROCK inhibitor netarsudil was initiated. The patient demonstrated significant improvement in symptoms, and the inflammation was successfully managed after nine months. In this study, a novel approach employing ROCK inhibitor therapy was utilised for the treatment of corneal endotheliitis, leading to marked recovery during patient follow-up. This case report represents the inaugural application of the ROCK inhibitor netarsudil in managing corneal endothelial decompensation attributed to corneal endotheliitis. These findings suggest that this method warrants consideration as a potential novel treatment option for similar conditions.

Acute Corneal Edema in a Middle-Aged Patient.

A middle-aged patient who had bilateral penetrating keratoplasty 20 years ago for keratoconus presented with pain and blurriness of the right eye for 2 days. Despite prompt corticosteroid therapy, they had no vision improvement and reported occasional pain. What would you do next?

Continuous Corneal Endothelial Damage by Chlorhexidine Alcohol Used for Disinfection in Nonophthalmic Surgery.

PURPOSE: To report a case of corneal endothelial damage caused by alcohol-containing chlorhexidine gluconate (CG-A) and its progression over time. METHODS: This was a case report. RESULTS: A 22-year-old man underwent neurosurgery under general anesthesia. CG-A (1%) was used for disinfection after the application of corneal protection tape. Postoperatively, the patient presented with hyperemia and swelling of the left conjunctiva and was referred to our department. Initial examination revealed left corneal epithelial erosion and corneal edema, which improved on postoperative day 14. The corneal endothelial cell density (ECD) was 3,345 cells/mm 2 on day 14, decreased rapidly to 2,090 cells/mm 2 on day 42, and slowly reduced to 1,122 cells/mm 2 on day 168. Thereafter, no decrease in ECD was observed. CONCLUSIONS: CG formulations can lead to a persistent decrease in ECD over several months, even after improvement of acute corneal edema.

Current state of endothelial cell therapy.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Currently, there is heightened interest surrounding endothelial cell therapy for the treatment of corneal edema. The purpose of this review article is to describe and summarize the background information as well as the research surrounding the emerging treatment modalities for endothelial cell therapy. RECENT FINDINGS: Marked advancements have been made in the translational research in this area, and increasing refinements have been demonstrated in the treatment protocols for cell therapy. Human clinical trials in this field are ongoing, specifically, in the area of injected human corneal endothelial cells (HCECs), with early results showing favorable safety and efficacy profiles. SUMMARY: Efficient and effective delivery of HCECs to patients with corneal edema and dysfunction now appears feasible, and the results from ongoing human clinical trials are much anticipated. Adjunct therapeutics-in the form of pharmacological agents and/or surgical techniques, such as descemetorhexis-will likely continue to play an important role in defining the future of endothelial cell therapy.

Scleral lens induced short term corneal changes in eyes with Pellucid Marginal Degeneration.

PURPOSE: To investigate the short-term effect of scleral lens (SL) on corneal curvature and corneal oedema in Pellucid Marginal Degeneration (PMD) eyes. METHODS: Corneal anterior, posterior curvature and corneal thickness were measured in 14 eyes of 14 PMD participants with Schiempflug imaging at different corneal diameters and meridians at baseline and after 6 h of SL wear. RESULTS: There was a significant flattening (up to 0.26 mm) of the anterior corneal curvature noted in the inferotemporal quadrant (from 210 to 255 degree at 2 mm, 8 mm and 10 mm corneal diameter), inferonasal quadrant (from 285 to 345 degree at 6 mm and 8 mm corneal diameter), and inferiorly at 2 mm and 10 mm corneal diameter (p < 0.05). Similarly, posterior corneal curvature showed statistically significant steepening mostly in inferotemporal quadrants (from 195 to 255 degree from 4 mm to 8 mm corneal diameter) and inferonasally at 2 mm and 4 mm corneal diameter (p < 0.05). A statistically significant increase in the corneal thickness noted in different corneal diameters with corneal oedema ranging from 2.10 % to 4.00 % after 6 h of SL wear. A gradual increase in corneal oedema was noted form centre to periphery. The baseline central fluid reservoir thickness (FRT) was 341.07 ± 139.8 which reduced to 276.71 ± 114.32 µm after 6 h of lens wear. No significant correlation was noted between corneal oedema with different parameters like initial and final FRT, change in anterior and posterior corneal curvature, and lens thickness (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Short-term SL wear induced a clinically acceptable range of corneal oedema. A clinically significant flattening in anterior curvature and minimal steepening in posterior curvature were noted. Practitioners should be careful while measuring corneal parameters in PMD eyes wearing SL, as these alterations can provide false impression of disease progression.

Comparison of keratoplasty outcomes at the scar versus edema stages of keratoconus.

PURPOSE: To assess the outcomes of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty or penetrating keratoplasty at the scar and the edema stages. METHODS: Forty-five patients (45 eyes) with keratoconus scar stage (scar group, n=26; penetrating keratoplasty a subgroup, n=7; deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty b subgroup, n=19) and keratoconus edema stage (edema group, n=19; penetrating keratoplasty c subgroup, n=12; deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty d group, n=7) who received penetrating keratoplasty or deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty from 2000 to 2022 were retrospectively studied. At 1, 6, and 12 months after surgery, the best-corrected visual acuity, astigmatism, spherical equivalent, corneal endothelial cell density, and complications were analyzed. RESULTS: The best-corrected visual acuity and average corneal endothelial cell loss rate were not significantly different between the scar and edema groups (p>0.05). At 6 and 12 months after surgery, the astigmatism and spherical equivalent in the scar group were significantly lower than those in the edema group (p<0.05). The spherical equivalent of the deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty b subgroup was lower than that of the penetrating keratoplasty a subgroup in the scar group 6 months after surgery (p<0.05). In the edema group, there was no significant difference in spherical equivalent between subgroups (p>0.05). There were no significant differences in best-corrected visual acuity and astigmatism between subgroups within the two groups (p>0.05). In comparison to the scar group, the edema group experienced more complications. According to a survival analysis, there was no statistically significant difference between the scar group and the edema group regarding the progression of vision. CONCLUSIONS: In terms of the outcomes and prognosis for vision after keratoplasty with edema stage and scar stage, deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty may be as effective as penetrating keratoplasty.

Scheimpflug-Based Tomographic Risk Factors for the Development of Acute Corneal Hydrops in Keratoconus.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to assess the risk factors that predispose patients with keratoconus to develop acute corneal hydrops (ACH), including both clinical and tomographic risk factors. We additionally describe tomographic changes of the cornea over time after ACH. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed patients with keratoconus who were followed at our institution from January 2015 to May 2023. Control eyes, defined as eyes with advanced keratoconus (stage IV Amsler-Krumeich classification on initial examination) were compared with eyes that developed ACH. Demographic, clinical, and tomographic factors were investigated. Visual acuity, keratometry, and corneal thickness were assessed at each follow-up visit to monitor progression over time. RESULTS: Twenty-three eyes of 19 patients developed ACH over the follow-up period. The incidence of known clinical associations including seasonal allergies, eye rubbing, snoring, asthma, and eczema was similar between the hydrops and control groups. There was a higher incidence of Down syndrome in the hydrops group ( P = 0.04). Eyes that developed hydrops had similar best corrected visual acuity on initial examination, but had steeper keratometry ( P = 0.003) and thinner corneas ( P < 0.001) than controls at baseline. After hydrops, progressive corneal flattening and reduced maximum keratometry occurred over time. However, final best corrected visual acuity was worse compared with initial examination before hydrops ( P = 0.03), as well as compared with control eyes ( P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Risk factors of developing ACH include steep keratometry and thin corneas as well as Down syndrome. Although corneal flattening will occur after resolution of acute corneal edema, visual acuity worsened after ACH.

Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty as Treatment for Late-Onset Interface Fluid Syndrome After Laser In Situ Keratomileusis.

PURPOSE: We herein present Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) as an effective surgical means of treatment for the management of interface fluid syndrome (IFS) in a series of cases with distant history of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: Three cases from a single institution were included. All patients had documented IFS in the setting of history of LASIK. All 3 patients underwent DMEK for the treatment of IFS. Visual acuity, clinical findings, pachymetry, endothelial cell count, and anterior segment optical coherence tomography were recorded. RESULTS: We describe 3 cases of late-onset IFS that developed in eyes many years after LASIK (ranging from 15 to 31 years). All 3 patients had clinically significant corneal edema and evidence of poor endothelial function at the time of IFS diagnosis. DMEK was subsequently performed in each case. All 3 eyes showed resolution of corneal edema and improvement in best-corrected visual acuity after DMEK. CONCLUSIONS: DMEK can provide successful visual and anatomical recovery in patients who have had previous LASIK and experience late-onset IFS due to endothelial cell dysfunction.

Topical netarsudil for the treatment of primary corneal endothelial degeneration in dogs.

This study evaluated the tolerability and efficacy of the topical rho-kinase inhibitor netarsudil for canine primary corneal endothelial degeneration (PCED). Twenty-six eyes of 21 client-owned dogs with PCED were enrolled in a prospective, randomized, vehicle control clinical trial and received topical netarsudil 0.02% (Rhopressa®) or vehicle control twice daily (BID) for the first 4 months. Then, all patients received netarsudil for the next 4 or 8 months. Complete ophthalmic examination, ultrasonic pachymetry, Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography, and in vivo confocal microscopy were performed at baseline and 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 months. Effect of netarsudil on central corneal thickness (CCT), percentage of cornea with edema, and endothelial cell density (ECD) were evaluated by repeated measures ANOVA. Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank test were used to compare corneal edema and clinical progression of eyes in netarsudil versus vehicle control groups. All dogs developed conjunctival hyperemia in at least one eye while receiving netarsudil. Unilateral transient reticulated intraepithelial bullae and stromal hemorrhage were observed respectively in 2 dogs in the netarsudil group. Two dogs showed persistently decreased tear production while receiving netarsudil, requiring topical immunomodulatory treatment. No significant differences in CCT, ECD, corneal edema or clinical progression were observed between netarsudil or vehicle treated eyes. When comparing efficacy of topical netarsudil BID and topical ripasudil 0.4% administered four times daily from our previous study, dogs receiving ripasudil had significantly less progression than those receiving netarsudil.

Corset suture: A novel technique of overlay appositional continuous sutures with air tamponade for management of large acute corneal hydrops.

Management of large acute corneal hydrops (ACH) has always been a challenge. Various medical and surgical management options have been used, such as topical steroids, cycloplegics, antiglaucoma medications, antibiotics, Descemet's membrane reposition, and pre-Descematic sutures, for the management of acute hydrops, but have shown limited benefit. We hereby describe a novel technique of appositional continuous overlay sutures along with air tamponade for surgical management of corneal edema following large ACH. In this technique, the epithelium is scraped to visualize the stromal cleft, and then corneal marking is done to locate the suture placement site. Next, a continuous overlay, 10-0 nylon suture is passed in a crisscross fashion, just like the laces of a corset. A small paracentesis is made to lower the intraocular pressure. Stromal fluid is milked out using two iris spatulas, simultaneous suture tension adjustment is done, and the knot is secured. Appropriate anterior chamber tamponade is achieved using air, paracentesis is hydrated, and a bandage contact lens is applied. We noted complete resolution of corneal edema within 2 weeks of the procedure, with significant improvement in visual acuity.

Factors and outcomes associated with corneal edema and Haabs striae in primary congenital glaucoma.

PURPOSE: To identify specific factors and outcomes associated with corneal edema and Haabs striae in primary congenital glaucoma (PCG). METHODS: The medical records of patients with PCG from 2011 to 2023 with >3 months' follow-up were reviewed retrospectively. Preoperative details and final outcomes were compared between eyes with and without corneal findings. The right eye of bilateral cases and the affected eye in unilateral cases were included. RESULTS: A total of 58 patients (104 eyes, 69% male) underwent initial angle surgery at an average age of 297 ± 368 (median, 134) days. Corneal edema and Haabs striae were present preoperatively in 72 (69%) eyes of 41 patients and 68 (65%) eyes of 39 patients, respectively. Patients with corneal edema presented at a younger age (P < 0.0001) and with shorter axial length (P = 0.01) than those without edema. Univariate analysis showed that corneal edema was associated with worse visual acuity at final follow-up (OR = 4.4; 95% CI, 1.2-25.3). Patients with Haabs striae were older than those without striae (P = 0.04). After angle surgery, corneal edema was present at 1 month in 71% (95% CI, 52-84), at 2 months in 26% (95% CI, 12-42), at 3 months in 16% (95% CI, 6-30), and at 1 year in 3% (95% CI, 0-13). Corneal opacification did not resolve in 4 eyes of 3 patients after >4 years of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: In our study cohort, corneal edema resolved in the majority of PCG cases within 2-3 months of initial angle surgery but was associated with younger age at presentation and worse visual acuity at final follow-up.

Laser in Situ Keratomileusis Flap Free-Floating on Interface Edema in Acute Corneal Hydrops.

This case report describes a patient with a history of laser in situ keratomileusis who presented with pain, photophobia, and blurred vision secondary to a corneal flap free-floating on interface edema in the setting of acute hydrops.

Topical application of calcitonin gene-related peptide as a regenerative, antifibrotic, and immunomodulatory therapy for corneal injury.

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a multifunctional neuropeptide abundantly expressed by corneal nerves. Using a murine model of corneal mechanical injury, we found CGRP levels in the cornea significantly reduced after injury. Topical application of CGRP as an eye drop accelerates corneal epithelial wound closure, reduces corneal opacification, and prevents corneal edema after injury in vivo. CGRP promotes corneal epithelial cell migration, proliferation, and the secretion of laminin. It reduces TGF-ß1 signaling and prevents TGF-ß1-mediated stromal fibroblast activation and tissue fibrosis. CGRP preserves corneal endothelial cell density, morphology, and pump function, thus reducing corneal edema. Lastly, CGRP reduces neutrophil infiltration, macrophage maturation, and the production of inflammatory cytokines in the cornea. Taken together, our results show that corneal nerve-derived CGRP plays a cytoprotective, pro-regenerative, anti-fibrotic, and anti-inflammatory role in corneal wound healing. In addition, our results highlight the critical role of sensory nerves in ocular surface homeostasis and injury repair.

Comparative posterior corneal profile of keratoconus hydrops versus Haab's striae in congenital glaucoma.

Keratoconus eyes develop corneal decompensation more often compared to eyes with primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) following Descemet's membrane (DM) tear. This study was conducted to compare the posterior corneal morphology in areas with DM breaks with regards to DM and pre-Descemet's layer (PDL) between the two. In this cross-sectional comparative study, anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) scans of the posterior cornea of advanced keratoconus eyes with hydrops ( n = 12), PCG eyes with Haab's striae ( n = 15), and healthy control eyes ( n = 14) were compared for DM-PDL morphology. These were further corroborated by the histopathology of corneal buttons from keratoconus ( n = 14) and PCG ( n = 13) cases obtained following penetrating keratoplasty and compared with controls (enucleated retinoblastoma globes, n = 6) on light microscopy and collagen IV immunostaining. AS-OCT showed a thicker median DM/PDL complex in PCG (80 µm) versus keratoconus eyes (36 µm, P = 0.01; Kruskal-Wallis test). The median height and length of detached DM-PDL were significantly more in keratoconus versus PCG (145 µm, 1766.1 ± 1320.6 µm vs. 26.5 µm, 453.3 ± 303.2 µm, respectively, P = 0.012; Kruskal-Wallis test). Type-1 DM/PDL detachment (seen as a characteristic taut chord) in keratoconus (90%) was the most common morphological pattern versus intracameral twin protuberance (92%) following DM breaks in PCG. Histopathology confirmed thicker DM in PCG (median: 63.4 µm) versus keratoconus eyes (median: 33.2 µm) or controls (27.1 µm) ( P = 0.001; Kruskal-Wallis test). Greater height/length of DM/PDL detachment compounded by poor healing response (lower DM/PDL thickness) probably causes more frequent corneal decompensation in keratoconus eyes when compared to PCG eyes following DM tears.

Optical coherence tomographic features of feline acute corneal hydrops: A case report.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to describe the optical coherence tomographic features of a cat with acute corneal hydrops. ANIMAL STUDIED: A 4-year-old castrated male domestic shorthaired showing conjunctival redness, ocular discharge, and intermittent squinting of both eyes with asymmetrical disease onset. METHODS: Complete ophthalmic examination and optical coherence tomography were performed. RESULTS: On slit-lamp biomicroscopic examination, severe intrastromal fluid pockets with profound bullae were observed in the dorsomedial region in both eyes. A diagnosis of feline acute corneal hydrops was made in both eyes. Optical coherence tomography revealed profound stromal lamellar separation representing heterogeneous reflective areas, and fluid pockets and bullae of variable size were concomitant to Descemet's membrane detachment demonstrated by a well-defined homogeneous hyporeflective area. Upon reevaluation 30 days during healing process for both eyes, the thickened epithelia and the thinning pan-stromal areas were identified as homogeneously hyper-reflective epithelia and as heterogeneous hyper-reflectivity, respectively. A thickened posterior corneal surface was shown as heterogeneous with patchy hyper-reflectivity. Additionally, Descemet's membrane detachment in the initial presentation had two distinct forms suspicious of Descemet's membrane rupture in each eye: a break with rolled ends and a break with flat ends. CONCLUSION: To the author's knowledge, this study represents the first documentation of in vivo detection of Descemet's membrane detachment and presumed rupture in a cat experiencing acute corneal hydrops. These observations strongly indicate that Descemet's membrane detachment/rupture acts as a most likely risk factor in the onset of acute corneal hydrops in cats.