Simultaneous tectonic Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty and tectonic Bowman layer transplant for the management of corneal perforation.

Abstract

To report the outcomes of three cases of corneal perforation managed with simultaneous tectonic Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (t-DSEK) and tectonic Bowman layer transplant (t-BLT) as an alternative to tectonic penetrating keratoplasty (t-PKP). Three eyes of three patients receiving simultaneous t-DSEK and t-BLT for corneal perforation were included. The technique for DSEK was modified depending on individual requirements. The t-BLT technique was standardised using an 8 mm graft and fixated with a running suture. Success was measured by the ability of this procedure to close a corneal perforation. All three cases achieved tectonic eye globe restoration and remained stable during the minimum 3-month observation period. Reinterventions were relatively common: 2 cases required amniotic membrane transplant for persistent epithelial defects. One case required DSEK rebubbling. One case developed angle closure glaucoma requiring surgical peripheral iridectomy. Simultaneous t-DSEK and t-BLT may be a useful strategy for the management of corneal perforation as an alternative management to t-PKP for selected cases.