[Comparative analysis of clinical and functional parameters in patients with stable stage II-III keratoconus after implantation of corneal segments and fitting of scleral rigid contact lenses]. / Sravnitel'nyi analiz kliniko-funktsional'nykh pokazatelei u patsientov so stabil'nym keratokonusom II­III stadii posle implantatsii rogovichnykh segmentov i podbora skleral'nykh zhestkikh kontaktnykh linz.

The modern treatment strategy for keratoconus (KC) involves sequential application of medical technologies aimed at stabilizing pathological changes in the cornea and restoring visual acuity. PURPOSE: This study compares the effect of implantation of intrastromal corneal ring segment (ICRS) and fitting of individual scleral rigid contact lenses (RCLs) on visual functions in patients with stage II-III KC after previously performed corneal collagen cross-linking. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The Helmholtz National Medical Research Center of Eye Diseases examined and treated 34 patients (69 eyes) aged 18 to 33 years with stage II-III KC. The study included patients who had previously undergone standard corneal collagen cross-linking. Depending on the type of optical correction, the patients were divided into two groups: patients in group 1 underwent ICRS implantation using a femtosecond laser; patients in group 2 were fitted with individual scleral RCLs. RESULTS: Improvement in clinical and functional parameters was observed in both groups. A higher clinical and functional result was achieved in group 2. CONCLUSION: For patients with stable stage II-III KC, it is advisable to recommend fitting of individual scleral RCLs for visual rehabilitation.

Imágenes multimodales y retromodo en la calcificación esclerocoroidea: reporte de un caso / Multimodal and retro-mode imaging in sclerochoroidal calcification: A case report

Presentamos un reporte de caso en una paciente de 70años sobre las calcificaciones esclerocoroideas, una rara condición que involucra depósitos de pirofosfato de calcio en el polo posterior del ojo. Proporcionamos un relato sobre la presentación clínica y su apariencia en imágenes multimodales, utilizando fotografías de color del fondo de ojo, tomografía de coherencia óptica de fuente de barrido (SS-OCT), ecografía ocular y la novedosa técnica de retromodo (RMI). Al examen la agudeza visual fue de 20/25 en el ojo derecho y de 20/20 en el ojo izquierdo. La fotografía de color del fondo de ojo reveló depósitos amarillentos localizados en la arcada temporal-superior de ambos ojos. SS-OCT demostró masas de origen escleral. Las ecografías oculares confirmaron la calcificación de estas masas. El RMI detectó imágenes hiperreflectivas con una marcada elevación superficial de las lesiones. El laboratorio sistémico no presentó alteraciones, lo que llevó al diagnóstico de calcificaciones esclerocoroideas bilaterales de origen idiopático.(AU)

We present a case report on sclerochoroidal calcification (SCC), a rare condition involving calcium pyrophosphate deposits in the posterior pole of the eye in a 70-year-old patient. We provide an account of the clinical presentation and its appearance in multimodal images, using color fundus photography, swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT), ocular ultrasound, and the novel retro-mode imaging (RMI) technique. Visual acuity was 20/25 in the right eye (OD) and 20/20 in the left eye (OS). Color fundus photography revealed yellowish deposits located in the upper temporal arcade of both eyes. SS-OCT demonstrated masses of scleral origin. Ocular ultrasounds confirmed the calcification of these masses. RMI detected hyper-reflective images with marked superficial elevation. Systemic laboratory results did not detect any abnormalities, leading to the diagnosis of bilateral idiopathic SCC.(AU)

Adhesion of Acanthamoeba on Scleral Contact Lenses According to Lens Shape.

Purpose: To investigate the adhesion of Acanthamoeba to scleral contact lens (ScCL) surface according to lens shape. Methods: Two strains of A. polyphaga (CDC:V062 and ATCC 30461) and one clinical Acanthamoeba isolate, were inoculated onto five contact lens (CL): one first-generation silicone hydrogel (SHCL; lotrafilcon B; adhesion control) containing plasma surface treatment; two ScCL (fluorosilicone acrylate) one containing surface treatment composed of plasma and the other containing plasma with Hydra-PEG, and two CL designed with a flat shape having the same material and surface treatments of the ScCL. Trophozoites that adhered to the lens's surfaces were counted by inverted optical light microscopy. Possible alterations of the lens surface that could predispose amoeba adhesion and Acanthamoeba attached to these lens surfaces were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: All strains revealed greater adhesion to the ScCL when compared with the flat lenses (P < 0.001). The clinical isolate and the ATCC 30461 had a higher adhesion (P < 0.001) when compared with the CDC:V062. A rough texture was observed on the surface of the lenses that have been examined by SEM. Also, SEM revealed that the isolates had a rounded appearance on the surface of the ScCL in contrast with an elongated appearance on the surface of the silicone hydrogel. Conclusions: The findings revealed that the curved shape of the ScCL favors amoeba adhesion.

[Transscleral ciliary surgery in glaucoma:from destructive surgery to minimally invasive surgery].

Over the years, there has been significant advancement in the safety and effectiveness of external cyclosurgery for glaucoma. This progress ranges from the initial "cyclodestructive surgery" to modern cycloplasty techniques, expanding beyond end-stage glaucoma treatment. Notably, innovative approaches like micropulse transscleral cycloplasty and ultrasonic cycloplasty are now being employed in earlier stages of glaucoma with better visual acuity, qualifying as minimally invasive procedures. Through a comprehensive review of the historical evolution of external cyclosurgery, elucidation of the mechanisms, clinical outcomes, and potential complications associated with novel cycloplasty techniques, and integration of practical clinical insights, this article aims to furnish clinicians with a profound comprehension of external cyclosurgery for glaucoma.

Intrascleral intraocular lens fixation with ab interno trabeculotomy in patients with exfoliation glaucoma with lens subluxation.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the surgical outcomes of intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation using ab interno trabeculotomy (LOT) in patients with exfoliation glaucoma with lens subluxation. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. METHODS: Twenty eyes of 18 patients with exfoliation glaucoma and lens or IOL subluxations were included. Three success criteria were based on postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) (A, ≤15 mmHg; B, ≤18 mmHg; C, ≤21 mmHg). The IOP, number of glaucoma medications, and visual acuity were compared before and after surgery. Success probability was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Cox proportional hazards' regression models were used to examine prognostic factors for surgical failure. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 23.4 ± 7.8 months. The mean IOP significantly decreased from 23.2 ± 6.8 mmHg preoperatively to 14.0 ± 4.4 mmHg at 1 year postoperative (P<0.001). Postoperative hyphema and vitreous hemorrhage were observed in seven and 15 eyes, respectively, and washout in the anterior chamber or vitreous cavity was performed in four eyes. Postoperative IOP spikes and hypotony were observed in four eyes each. Glaucoma reoperation was performed in two eyes. The success rates at 12 months were 65%, 85%, and 90% using criteria A, B, and C, respectively. The IOP at 1 month after surgery was a significant prognostic factor for surgical failure according to criterion A (hazard ratio: 1.08; P=0.034). CONCLUSION: Intrascleral IOL fixation combined with microhook LOT is a promising option in cases of exfoliation glaucoma with subluxated lens/IOL; however, the high rate of postoperative hyphema and vitreous hemorrhage should be noted.

Extracellular vesicle encapsulated nicotinamide delivered via a trans-scleral route provides retinal ganglion cell neuroprotection.

The progressive and irreversible degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons is the major characteristic of glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a cofactor and metabolite of redox reaction critical for neuronal survival. Supplementation with nicotinamide (NAM), a precursor of NAD, can confer neuroprotective effects against glaucomatous damage caused by an age-related decline of NAD or mitochondrial dysfunction, reflecting the high metabolic activity of RGCs. However, oral supplementation of drug is relatively less efficient in terms of transmissibility to RGCs compared to direct delivery methods such as intraocular injection or delivery using subconjunctival depots. Neither method is ideal, given the risks of infection and subconjunctival scarring without novel techniques. By contrast, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have advantages as a drug delivery system with low immunogeneity and tissue interactions. We have evaluated the EV delivery of NAM as an RGC protective agent using a quantitative assessment of dendritic integrity using DiOlistics, which is confirmed to be a more sensitive measure of neuronal health in our mouse glaucoma model than the evaluation of somatic loss via the immunostaining method. NAM or NAM-loaded EVs showed a significant neuroprotective effect in the mouse retinal explant model. Furthermore, NAM-loaded EVs can penetrate the sclera once deployed in the subconjunctival space. These results confirm the feasibility of using subconjunctival injection of EVs to deliver NAM to intraocular targets.

Scleral Contact Lens to Preserve a Corneal Graft in Chronic Lagophthalmos.

Facial burns involving the periorbital region may lead to cicatricial ectropion and lagophthalmos, causing severe exposure keratopathy and eventually blindness if uncorrected. In these patients, it is critical to provide aesthetic and functional surgical correction to protect the ocular surface from chronic desiccation in addition to visual rehabilitation. Conventional methods may not be sufficient to provide visual rehabilitation in complex cases. Scleral lenses can be a multipurpose alternative for these patients. Herein, we present the challenging case of a patient who developed cicatricial lagophthalmos and exposure keratopathy after facial transplantation due to gasoline burns and received a scleral contact lens for visual rehabilitation.

Retropupillary Iris-fixated versus Sutured Scleral-fixated Intraocular Lenses.

Aim: To compare the anatomical and functional results and patient satisfaction following retropupillary implantation of Artisan Aphakia iris-fixated intraocular lens (rAAIF) and sutured scleral fixated intraocular lens (SFIOL). Subjects and methods: We presented a prospective double-arm non-blinded study. Forty-one eyes with acquired aphakia, no age-related macular degeneration, no previous keratoplasty, no combined procedures, no AC reaction (cells, fibrin), normal intraocular pressure, no history of endothelial corneal dystrophy in relatives or fellow eye were included. Indications, complications, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), endothelial cell density (ECD), and patient satisfaction score were assessed. Results: Retropupillary AAIF was implanted in 21 (51.22%) eyes and SFIOL in 20 (48.78%) eyes. The most common indication was complicated cataract surgery in 18 cases (43.90%), followed by trauma in 16 (39.02%), and spontaneous dislocation in 7 (17.07%). No difference between rAAIF and SFIOL in terms of sex, laterality (χ=0.13, p=0.72), indications (χ=0.78, p=0.68), previous ocular history, and comorbidities was observed. The complications and the visual outcomes at 6 months postoperatively were similar between the two groups (p=0.95 and p=0.321, respectively). The ECD loss in the two groups was also similar (p=0.89). The patient satisfaction score was 58.67±8.80 in the rAAIF and 56.69±11.50 in the SFIOL group, which was statistically similar (p=0.764). Conclusion: Retropupillary AAIF and SFIOL showed similar results concerning visual acuity, endothelial cell loss, and patient satisfaction. Careful preoperative individual assessment is required to have optimal results with either technique. Abbreviations: AAIF = Artisan Aphakia iris-fixated intraocular lens, rAAIF = retropupillary Artisan Aphakia iris-fixated intraocular lens, CDVA = corrected distance visual acuity, ECD = endothelial cell density, IOL = intraocular lens, SD = standard deviation, SFIOL = scleral fixated intraocular lens.

Remote and low-cost intraocular pressure monitoring by deep learning of speckle patterns.

Significance: Glaucoma, a leading cause of global blindness, disproportionately affects low-income regions due to expensive diagnostic methods. Affordable intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement is crucial for early detection, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Aim: We developed a remote photonic IOP biomonitoring method by deep learning of the speckle patterns reflected from an eye sclera stimulated by a sound source. We aimed to achieve precise IOP measurements. Approach: IOP was artificially raised in 24 pig eyeballs, considered similar to human eyes, to apply our biomonitoring method. By deep learning of the speckle pattern videos, we analyzed the data for accurate IOP determination. Results: Our method demonstrated the possibility of high-precision IOP measurements. Deep learning effectively analyzed the speckle patterns, enabling accurate IOP determination, with the potential for global use. Conclusions: The novel, affordable, and accurate remote photonic IOP biomonitoring method for glaucoma diagnosis, tested on pig eyes, shows promising results. Leveraging deep learning and speckle pattern analysis, together with the development of a prototype for human eyes testing, could enhance diagnosis and management, particularly in resource-constrained settings worldwide.

'BLUES' procedure for assessing the blue level of the sclera in Osteogenesis Imperfecta.

PURPOSE: Blue sclera is a characteristic and common clinical sign of Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). However, there is currently no widely accepted, objective method for assessing and grading blue sclera in individuals with OI. To address this medical need, this study is aimed to design and validate a new method called 'BLUES' (BLUe Eye Sclera) to objectively identify and quantify the blue color in the sclera of patients affected by OI. METHODS: Sixty-two patients affected by OI and 35 healthy controls were enrolled in the present prospective study, for a total of 194 eyes analyzed. In the 'BLUES' procedure, eye images from patients with OI and control subjects were analyzed to assess and grade the blue level of the sclera using Adobe Photoshop Software. The validation process then involved comparing the results obtained with the 'BLUES' procedure to the judgement of experienced ophthalmologists (JEO). A receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to examine the overall discriminatory power. The sensitivity and specificity levels and the Cohen's Kappa (K) indexes of 'BLUES' and 'JEO' were estimated versus the standard OI diagnosis. The K indexes of 'BLUES' versus 'JEO' were also evaluated. RESULTS: The optimal cut-off point of the scleral blue peak was calculated at 17%. Our findings demonstrated a sensitivity of 89% (CI95%: 0.835-0.945) and specificity of 87% (CI95%: 0.791-0.949) for the 'BLUES' procedure with an agreement versus the diagnosis of OI of 0.747. In comparison, the sensitivity and specificity of 'JEO' ranged from 89 to 94% and 77% to 100%, respectively, with an agreement ranging from 0.663 to 0.871 with the diagnosis of OI. The agreement between 'BLUES 'and 'JEO' evaluations ranged from 0.613 to 0.734. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings demonstrated an 89% sensitivity and an impressive 87% specificity of our method to analyze the blue sclera in OI. The results indicated high agreement with disease diagnosis and were consistent with evaluations by experienced ophthalmologists. The 'BLUES' procedure appears to be a simple, reliable and objective method for effectively identify and quantify the blue color of the sclera in OI.

Lamina Cribrosa Insertions Into the Sclera Are Sparser, Narrower, and More Slanted in the Anterior Lamina.

Purpose: The lamina cribrosa (LC) depends on the sclera for support. The support must be provided through the LC insertions. Although a continuous insertion over the whole LC periphery is often assumed, LC insertions are actually discrete locations where LC collagenous beams meet the sclera. We hypothesized that LC insertions vary in number, size, and shape by quadrant and depth. Methods: Coronal cryosections through the full LCs from six healthy monkey eyes were imaged using instant polarized light microscopy. The images were registered into a stack, on which we manually marked LC insertion outlines, nothing their position in-depth and quadrant (inferior, superior, nasal, or temporal). From the marks, we determined the insertion number, width, angle to the canal wall (90 degrees = perpendicular), and insertion ratio (fraction of LC periphery represented by insertions). Using linear mixed effect models, we determined if the insertion characteristics were associated with depth or quadrant. Results: Insertions in the anterior LC were sparser, narrower, and more slanted than those in deeper LC (P values < 0.001). There were more insertions spanning a larger ratio of the canal wall in the middle LC than in the anterior and posterior (P values < 0.001). In the nasal quadrant, the insertion angles were significantly smaller (P < 0.001). Conclusions: LC insertions vary substantially and significantly over the canal. The sparser, narrower, and more slanted insertions of the anterior-most LC may not provide the robust support afforded by insertions of the middle and posterior LC. These variations may contribute to the progressive deepening of the LC and regional susceptibility to glaucoma.

Local resection via partial lamellar sclerouvectomy for ciliary body tumors - a case series.

BACKGROUND: Ciliary body tumor is extremely rare and treatment is challenging. The aim of this study is to present our experience in treating this rare entity, especially large tumors with more than 5 clock hours of involvement, and to evaluate the surgical outcomes and complications of local resection via partial lamellar sclerouvectomy in four cases of ciliary body tumors in China. METHODS: Four patients with ciliary body tumors underwent partial lamellar sclerouvectomy between October 2019 and April 2023 in Shanghai General Hospital, China. Tumor features, histopathologic findings, complications, visual acuity, and surgical outcomes were reviewed at a mean follow-up of 20.8 months. RESULTS: Four patients with a mean age of 31.8 years were included in this study. The histopathological diagnosis was adenoma of non-pigmented ciliary epithelium (ANPCE), schwannoma, and multiple ciliary body pigment epithelial cysts. The mean largest tumor base diameter was 6.00 mm (range: 2.00-10.00) and the mean tumor thickness was 3.50 mm (range: 2.00-5.00). Preoperative complications included cataract in 3 (75%) eyes, lens dislocation in 2 (50%), and secondary glaucoma in 1 (25%). Temporary ocular hypotonia was observed in one case and no other postoperative complications were observed. At a mean follow-up of 20.8 months, the best corrected visual acuity increased in 3 eyes and was stable in 1 eye. Tumor recurrence was absent in all eyes. All patients were alive at the end of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Local tumor resection via PLSU is useful in the treatment of ciliary body tumors, including large tumors occupying more than five clock hours of pars plicata. Surgery-related complications were manageable with adequate preoperative assessment and careful operation during surgery.

Comparison of complications of intrascleral fixation according to the extent of vitrectomy.

BACKGROUND: Intraocular lens (IOL) fixation is performed after intraoperative anterior or total vitrectomy. This study aimed to compare the intraoperative and postoperative complications of these two techniques. METHODS: This retrospective study included 235 eyes that underwent intrascleral fixation surgery at our hospital between July 2014 and January 2021. The eyes were classified into the anterior vitrectomy group (A-vit group; 134 eyes) and the pars plana vitrectomy group (PPV group; 101 eyes). The age, preoperative and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity, observation period, preoperative and postoperative intraocular pressure, and the incidence of intraoperative and postoperative complications were assessed. RESULTS: Intrascleral fixation was performed more frequently in the PPV group, and a significant difference was observed between the eyes with a history of vitrectomy and eyes with scleral buckles (p = 0.00041). In terms of the incidence of postoperative complications following intrascleral fixation, the incidence of low intraocular pressure postoperative was higher in the PPV group than that in the A-vit group, and a significant difference was observed between the two groups (p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The visual outcome and complications following intrascleral fixation did not differ according to the extent of vitreous excision.

Flange depth for scleral pocket vs no pocket techniques for intrascleral intraocular lens fixation.

PURPOSE: To compare flange depth for a modified scleral pocket (SP) vs no scleral pocket (NSP) technique (Yamane technique) for intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation. SETTING: Instituto de Oftalmología Santa Fe, Santa Fe, Argentina. DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, single-surgeon, observational study. METHODS: Eyes with aphakia and no capsular support were included. They were divided into 2 groups: one was programmed for a double-needle flanged intrascleral IOL fixation as originally described by Shin Yamane with NSP and the second group had a modified SP technique. Flange depth was measured with anterior-segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively, and the results were compared. RESULTS: Each group comprised 18 eyes of 18 patients, giving a total of 36 flanges per group. The groups were comparable preoperatively. At 12 months, uncorrected distance visual acuity and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) were not statistically different for both groups (P = .333; P = .448). Spherical equivalent (SEQ) was not significantly different between groups at 12 months postoperatively (P = .078). AS-OCT revealed a significantly deeper flange position for the SP group at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: When performing a double-needle intrascleral IOL fixation in aphakic eyes with no capsular support, a modified scleral pocket technique provides a significantly deeper flange position with no difference in CDVA or SEQ 12 months postoperatively.

Long-term outcomes of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy with and without posterior scleral reinforcement on myopic maculopathy in myopic choroidal neovascularization eyes.

BACKGROUND: Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy is used for myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV). Patchy chorioretinal atrophy (pCRA) enlargement has been reported in mCNV cases associated with vision loss. Our aim was to compare the long-term effectiveness of anti-VEGF therapy alone versus anti-VEGF followed by posterior scleral reinforcement (PSR) in controlling myopic maculopathy in mCNV eyes. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of the medical records of 95 high myopia patients (refractive error ≥ 6.00 diopters, axial length ≥ 26.0 mm) with mCNV. Patients were treated with anti-VEGF alone (group A) or anti-VEGF followed by PSR (group B). The following data were collected: refractive error, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), ophthalmic fundus examination, ocular coherence tomography and ocular biometry at 12 and 24 months pre- and postoperatively. The primary outcomes were changes in pCRA and BCVA. RESULTS: In 26 eyes of 24 patients, the mean pCRA size significantly increased from baseline (0.88 ± 1.69 mm2) to 12 months (1.57 ± 2.32 mm2, t = 3.249, P = 0.003) and 24 months (2.17 ± 2.79 mm2, t = 3.965, P = 0.001) postoperatively. The increase in perilesional pCRA in group B (n = 12) was 98.2% and 94.2% smaller than that in group A (n = 14) at 12 and 24 months (Beta 0.57 [95% CI 0.01, 191 1.13], P = 0.048). In group B, 7 eyes (58.3%) gained more than 2 lines of BCVA compared with only 4 eyes (28.6%) in group A at 24 months. CONCLUSION: Anti-VEGF therapy followed by PSR achieved better outcomes than anti-VEGF therapy alone in controlling the development of myopic maculopathy in mCNV and may constitute a better treatment option by securing a better long-term VA outcome.

Minimally invasive micro sclerostomy (MIMS) procedure in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Minimally Invasive Micro Sclerotomy (MIMS) procedure in the management of uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma. METHODS: A prospective, open-label, single-arm clinical evaluation with intra-subject comparisons performed at the Ophthalmologic Center after S.V. Malayan, Yerevan, Armenia. Included were adults with primary open-angle glaucoma (OAG) (N = 114) or exfoliative glaucoma (N = 6) who were uncontrolled (IOP > 21) on tolerated topical medication. Mild (N = 7), moderate (N = 66) and severe (n = 47) cases were prospectively included without preselection. Following subconjunctival Mitomycin C, an ab-interno MIMS procedure was performed alone (N = 100) or combined with phacoemulsification (N = 20). Patients were followed for 52 weeks. Procedure-related complications and adverse events were recorded. Success criteria were defined as -5 < IOP ≤ 21mmHg OR a reduction in IOP of ≥ 20% from baseline with (qualified success) or without (complete success) hypotensive medications. RESULTS: Mean patient age was 69 ± 10.1 years. The mean duration of the procedure was 2:01 ± 0:41 min:sec. Scleral drainage channels were achieved in all cases. No device malfunctions, intraoperative complications, or serious adverse events were reported. Iris plugging of the sclerostomy site and early spikes in IOP were the most common adverse events. The only reason for failure was final IOP > 21 mmHg on tolerated medication. At 52 weeks (n = 93), mean IOP decreased by 38% from baseline (P < 0.001), from 27.9 ± 3.7 to 17.5 ± 5.3 mmHg, a difference of 10.5 mmHg (95% CI: -11.7, -9.3). One-year qualified success was documented in 82.1% (95% CI: 72.9%,89.2%) of the patients and complete success, in 70.5% (60.3-79.4%). 60% (95 CI:49.4%,69.9%) of the patients achieved maximum IOP level of 14 mmHg or at least 30% reduction in IOP. CONCLUSIONS: MIMS procedure is a relatively simple, short and safe minimally invasive bleb-forming procedure. Its efficacy, as found in this short-term evaluation, lends it suitable for mild and moderate uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04503590 2019-05-29.

Thickness of anterior sclera and corneal layers in systemic sclerosis.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the thickness of anterior sclera and corneal layers in patients with systemic sclerosis. METHODS: The present cross-sectional study included 41 patients with systemic sclerosis and 41 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. The study and control groups were compared in terms of the thickness of anterior sclera, corneal epithelium, Bowman's layer, corneal stroma, and Descemet's membrane-endothelium complex. The thickness measurements were obtained using the anterior segment module of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. RESULTS: The thickness of anterior sclera, corneal epithelium, Bowman's layer, and Descemet's membrane-endothelium complex were similar in the patients with systemic sclerosis and healthy controls (P > 0.05). Total corneal thickness at the apex was 511.1 ± 33.5 µm in the systemic sclerosis group and 528.4 ± 29.5 µm in the control group (P = 0.015). The corneal stroma was thinner in the systemic sclerosis patients compared to the healthy controls (P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: The corneal stroma was thinner in the patients with systemic sclerosis compared to that of healthy controls, while the thickness of the anterior sclera was similar in both groups.

Effect of digital ocular massage on intraocular pressure and Schlemm's canal dimensions.

Digital ocular massage has been reported to temporarily lower intraocular pressure (IOP). This could be related to an enhanced aqueous humor outflow; however, the mechanism is not clearly understood. Using anterior segment optical coherence tomography, the Schlemm's canal (SC) and trabecular meshwork (TM) can be imaged and measured. Here, 66 healthy adults underwent digital ocular massage for 10 min in their right eyes. The IOP and dimensions of the SC and TM were measured before and after ocular massage. All subjects demonstrated IOP reduction from 15.7 ± 2.5 mmHg at baseline to 9.6 ± 2.2 mmHg immediately after, and median of 11.6 mmHg 5-min after ocular massage (Friedman's test, p < 0.001). There was significant change in SC area (median 10,063.5 µm2 at baseline to median 10,151.0 µm2 after ocular massage, Wilcoxon test, p = 0.02), and TM thickness (median 149.8 µm at baseline to 144.6 ± 25.3 µm after ocular massage, Wilcoxon test, p = 0.036). One-third of the subjects demonstrated collapse of the SC area (-2 to -52%), while two-thirds showed expansion of the SC area (2 to 168%). There were no significant changes in SC diameter (270.4 ± 84.1 µm vs. 276.5 ± 68.7 µm, paired t-test, p = 0.499), and TM width (733.3 ± 110.1 µm vs. 733.5 ± 111.6 µm, paired t-test, p = 0.988). Eyes with a higher baseline IOP demonstrated a greater IOP reduction (Pearson correlation coefficient r = -0.521, p < 0.001). Eyes with smaller SC area at baseline showed greater SC area expansion (Pearson correlation coefficient = -0.389, p < 0.001). Greater IOP reduction appeared in eyes with greater SC area expansion (Pearson correlation coefficient r = -0.306, p = 0.01). Association between change in IOP and change in TM thickness was not significant (Spearman's ρ = 0.015, p = 0.902). Simple digital ocular massage is an effective method to lower IOP values, and change in the SC area was significantly associated with IOP changes.

Dislocation force of scleral flange-fixated intraocular lens haptics.

PURPOSE: To measure the dislocation forces in relation to haptic material, flange size and needle used. SETTING: Hanusch Hospital, Vienna, Austria. DESIGN: Laboratory Investigation. METHODS, MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: 30 G (gauge) thin wall and 27 G standard needles were used for a 2 mm tangential scleral tunnel in combination with different PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) and PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate haptics). Flanges were created by heating 1 mm of the haptic end, non-forceps assisted in PVDF and forceps assisted in PMMA haptics. The dislocation force was measured in non-preserved cadaver sclera using a tensiometer device. RESULTS: PVDF flanges achieved were of a mushroom-like shape and PMMA flanges were of a conic shape. For 30 G needle tunnels the dislocation forces for PVDF and PMMA haptic flanges were 1.58 ± 0.68 N (n = 10) and 0.70 ± 0.14 N (n = 9) (p = 0.003) respectively. For 27 G needle tunnels the dislocation forces for PVDF and PMMA haptic flanges were 0.31 ± 0.35 N (n = 3) and 0.0 N (n = 4), respectively. The flange size correlated with the occurring dislocation force in experiments with 30 G needle tunnels (r = 0.92), when flanges were bigger than 384 micrometres. CONCLUSIONS: The highest dislocation forces were found for PVDF haptic flanges and their characteristic mushroom-like shape for 30 G thin wall needle scleral tunnels. Forceps assisted flange creation in PMMA haptics did not compensate the disadvantage of PMMA haptics with their characteristic conic shape flange.