ESCRS - PP24.13 - Early Results Of Synthetic Endothelial Layer Implantation For The Treatment Of Failed Endothelial Keratoplasty

Early Results Of Synthetic Endothelial Layer Implantation For The Treatment Of Failed Endothelial Keratoplasty

Published 2023 - 41st Congress of the ESCRS

Reference: PP24.13 | Type: Free paper | DOI: 10.82333/1tf7-2m30

Authors: Antonio Moramarco 1 , Natalie di Geronimo 1 , Nicola Valsecchi 1 , Lorenzo Gardini 1 , Danilo Iannetta 1 , Luigi Fontana* 1

1Ophthalmology Unit,IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna,Bologna,Italy

Purpose

To report the early results (three months) of a novel synthetic endothelial layer implant for the treatment of late endothelial failure following endothelial keratoplasty (EK).

Setting

Ophthalmology Unit, S.Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy

Methods

Four patients with chronic corneal edema, several months after one or more EK procedures, underwent removal of the EK graft and implantation of synthetic endothelial layer (EndoArt, EyeYon Medica, Israel). The implant was secured to the posterior corneal surface using an air-gas bubble.

Results

The Endoart was centered and adherent to the posterior corneal surface in all patients. A increase in central corneal transparency was achieved in all patients with a corresponding decrease in central cornea thickness from mean 779 ± 135 μm preoperatively, to 567 ± 65 μm postoperatively (p< 0.05). The BCVA increased from mean 1.38 ± 0.15 (Logmar) preoperatively to 0.50 ± 0.22 (Logmar) postoperatively (p<0.05). All patients reported an improvement of ocular discomfort symptoms. No complications occurred after surgery, though all patients required rebubble after a mean of 34 ± 22 days after surgery, for complete adhesion of the implant.  

Conclusions

Synthetic endothelial layer implantation may represent a possible option for the treatment of patients with previous failed EK and guarded prognosis for repeat keratoplasty.