ESCRS - PO474 - Repeating Dalk For Failed Graft

Repeating Dalk For Failed Graft

Published 2025 - 43rd Congress of the ESCRS

Reference: PO474 | Type: Free paper | DOI: 10.82333/bby5-dk53

Authors: Youngsub Eom* 1 , Seul Ki Yang 2 , Dong Hyun Kim 3 , Jong Suk Song 3 , David Cooke 4

1Ophthalmology,Korea University College of Medicine,Seoul,Korea, Republic Of;Ophthalmology,Korea University Ansan Hospital,Ansan-si,Korea, Republic Of, 2Satellite System 3 Team, Hanwha Systems Co., Ltd,Yongin-si,Korea, Republic Of, 3Korea University College of Medicine,Seoul,Korea, Republic Of, 4Great Lakes Eye Care,Saint Josept,United States

Purpose

To evaluate the effectiveness of repeat DALK in patients with prior unsuccessful DALK procedures.

Setting

Magrabi Health, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 3 patients who underwent repeat DALK due to initial surgery failure. We documented reasons for repeat surgery, time since initial surgery, and pre- and postoperative BCVA for each patient.

 

Results

The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 12 months after repeat DALK. The primary indication for DALK was keratoconus (n = 3). Repeat surgery was necessitated when the corrected distant visual acuity (CDVA) decreased below 20/200. The time elapsed since the initial surgery varied from 3 years to 15 years. Postoperatively, the CDVA improved from 20/120 to 20/25 in  2 patients and the last patient shows improvement to 20/40 following the repeat DALK. At the most recent examination, all Re-DALK grafts were clear. In Re-DALK, the bed dissection was facilitated due to weaker adhesions.

Conclusions

The prognosis for repeat DALK for failed DALK is favorable. In contrast to penetrating keratoplasty, Re DALK presents advantages such as a simpler dissection and reduced likelihood of graft rejection.