LONGTERM FOLLOW UP OF AN ARTIFICIAL ENDOTHELIAL LAYER FOR TREATMENT OF CHRONIC CORNEAL EDEMA

Despite the established efficacy of the Descemet Membrane Endothelial (DMEK) procedure, the challenging preparation methods, shortage of corneal donor, limited access to eye banks and the legal and ethical barriers still restrain access to transplantation. Such issues highlight a need for alternatives such as an artificial endothelial layer

International Vision Correction Research Centre (IVCRC), Department of Ophthalmology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Germany

The artificial endothelial layer, the EndoArt® (EyeYon Medical, Ness Ziona, Israel), functions as a hydrophilic water-impermeable plate that is designed to be attached to the recipient’s posterior stroma, preventing the inflow of aqueous humor into the stroma and decreasing corneal edema. We present two-year results of the surgical technique for implantation of the artificial endothelial layer in our first two patients with endothelial decompensation that may serve as an alternative to the conventional DMEK and reduce the indication for corneal transplantation. In our two first cases, the artificial endothelial layer led to rapid reduction of the central corneal thickness that persevered until the two-year follow-up examination without any complications. Though the visual acuity did not experience a significant increase, both patients reported high satisfaction and an overall brighter visual quality on the operated eye.

In conclusion, this technique shows feasibility of a novel artificial endothelial layer for treatment of patients with endothelial dysfunction. Further studies with a larger sample size and a longer follow-up period are necessary to establish its long-term efficacy and safety profile