Current status and future prospects for cultured limbal tissue transplants in Australia and New Zealand.

Cultured limbal tissue transplants have become widely used over the last decade as a treatment for limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). While the number of patients afflicted with LSCD in Australia and New Zealand is considered to be relatively low, the impact of this disease on quality of life is so severe that the potential efficacy of cultured transplants has necessitated investigation. We presently review the basic biology and experimental strategies associated with the use of cultured limbal tissue transplants in Australia and New Zealand. In doing so, we aim to encourage informed discussion on the issues required to advance the use of cultured limbal transplants in Australia and New Zealand. Moreover, we propose that a collaborative network could be established to maintain access to the technology in conjunction with a number of other existing and emerging treatments for eye diseases.

Epithelial defect, diffuse lamellar keratitis, and epithelial ingrowth following post-LASIK epithelial toxicity.

This case reports an association between 2 uncommon flap complications in 1 eye related to epithelial toxicity and subsequent epithelial defect secondary to prolonged intraoperative exposure to topical anesthesia. A patient had hyperopic laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) for the correction of +2.75 +1.75 x 70 in the left eye. Because of the patient's anxiety and movement, additional topical local anesthesia was used and the flap remained reflected for 5 minutes. Immediately postsurgery, a toxic appearance was noted in the epithelium of the LASIK flap; 24 hours later, a large central epithelial defect was identified. Three days post- LASIK, the epithelial defect had healed but diffuse lamellar keratitis was noted in the interface, particularly underlying the location of the original epithelial defect. Over 6 weeks, a self-limiting epithelial ingrowth developed in the inferior interface. Fourteen months post-LASIK, the uncorrected visual acuity was 6/9 with a residual refraction of +0.50 +0.50 x 90.