Repeat Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty Research Articles

Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy masking an underlying postrefractive surgery ectasia

Introduction: This article describes a case presenting Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) masking an underlying postrefractive surgery ectasia. Patient and Clinical Findings: A 69-year-old woman presented in January 2022 with blurriness, halos, and glare in the left eye. Ocular history included a photorefractive keratectomy performed twice in her left eye in 2007 for hyperopic astigmatism. A diagnosis of asymptomatic Fuchs dystrophy was noted in 2010. She had acute decompensation of the cornea in the left eye because of FECD, and the first Descemet-stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) with cataract surgery was performed in 2018. Diagnosis, Intervention, and Clinical Findings: The patient had a failed DSAEK graft in the left eye. A repeat DSAEK was performed in 2022, and 6 months postoperatively, the patient started showing signs of ectasia in the left eye. The authors believe the ectasia was preexisting but masked by the failed DSAEK graft and FECD and started showing after corneal deturgescence postoperatively. Conclusions: The presence of FECD and corneal ectasia can complicate diagnosis because of overlapping clinical and topographic features. This case highlights the importance of preoperative topography with epithelial/stromal thickness mapping in patients with a history of multiple refractive corneal procedures to consider the possibility of ectasia and prevent unforeseen outcomes and complications. Further research is necessary to determine standardized imaging techniques, particularly in cases of concurrent diseases.

The clinical outcomes of keratoplasty in irreversible corneal decompensation secondary to Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome.

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of penetrating keratoplasty (PK) and Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) in eyes with irreversible corneal decompensation secondary to Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome (ARS). In this retrospective case series, a total of four eyes undergoing PK and seven eyes undergoing DSAEK, including one eye requiring one repeat DSAEK, between 2014 and 2021 were enrolled. Postoperative complications, graft survival, glaucoma treatment before and after keratoplasty, visual outcomes, and endothelial cell density were recorded. The mean follow-up duration was 34.4 ± 16.8months. Before keratoplasty, the mean BCVA was 2.0 ± 0.4 LogMAR, and the mean IOP was 21.7 ± 8.1mmHg. A total of 63.6% of eyes (7/11) received glaucoma treatment, including five eyes with glaucoma surgeries. After keratoplasty, 27.3% of eyes (3/11) exhibited secondary graft failure. The mean BCVA reached a maximum of 0.7 ± 0.5 LogMAR at 8.9 ± 7.5months, with no significant difference between the PK and DSAEK groups (P1 = 1.00, P2 = 0.12). Four eyes with previous glaucoma surgeries exhibited markedly high IOP. A total of 72.7% of eyes (8/11) required additional glaucoma treatments. The mean endothelial cell loss (ECL) rates at 1, 6, 12 and 24months were 43%, 49%, 63% and 54%, respectively, with no significant difference between the PK and DSAEK groups (P1 = 0.64, P2 = 1.00, P3 = 0.57, and P4 = 0.44). Both PK and DSAEK can successfully treat corneal decompensation secondary to ARS, resulting in similar outcomes with regard to IOP control, BCVA and ECL. IOP control is essential for postoperative management, especially for eyes with previous glaucoma surgeries.

Clinicopathologic Correlations of Retrocorneal Membranes Associated With Endothelial Corneal Graft Failure

To provide clinicopathologic correlations for retrocorneal membranes associated with Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) failure. Retrospective case series. The specimens and medical records of the patients diagnosed with clinically significant retrocorneal membranes associated with DSAEK failure at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute or the University of Miami Veterans Hospital between October 2015 and March 2020 were reviewed for demographics, clinical presentation, comorbidities, and surgeries performed. Histopathologic analysis was performed on hematoxylin-eosin and periodic acid-Schiff sections. Immunohistochemical studies were performed for smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), pancytokeratin, and CK7. Immunofluorescence was performed for vimentin, N-cadherin, ROCK1, RhoA, ZEB1, and Snail. A total of 7 patients (3 male and 4 female) were identified to have a clinically significant retrocorneal membranes at the time of graft failure. The average age at the time of first DSAEK was 70 years (range: 55-85 years). All patients were pseudophakic and had a glaucoma drainage device in place; 1 had a history of failed DSAEK. Ranging from 0 to 47months after surgery, a variably thick retrocorneal fibrous membrane was observed, eventually leading to graft failure. Four patients underwent subsequent penetrating keratoplasty and 3 underwent repeat DSAEK. On histopathologic evaluation, a pigmented fibrocellular tissue was identified along the posterior margin of the corneas and DSAEK buttons in all cases. Further characterization with immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence demonstrated membranes to be negative for pancytokeratin and positive for α-SMA, vimentin, CK7, N-cadherin, ZEB1, Snail, ROCK1, and RhoA. Fibrocellular retrocorneal membrane proliferation may be associated with DSAEK failure in patients with previous glaucoma drainage device surgery. Our results demonstrate myofibroblastic differentiation and a lack of epithelial differentiation. Positivity for markers of an endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition indicates possible endothelial origin and could be the hallmark for future targeted pharmacotherapy.

Endothelial corneal transplants: indications, clinical profile and surgical outcomes in a tertiary care hospital

BackgroundEndothelial keratoplasties have become the surgical procedure of choice over full thickness penetrating keratoplasty for corneal decompensation because of endothelial dysfunction. MethodsA retrospective data review was performed from February 2016 to April 2017 for all the patients who underwent endothelial keratoplasty in a tertiary care center for Indian Armed Forces. ResultsA total of 161 corneal transplants were performed; endothelial keratoplasties accounted for 34 (21.1%) transplants. Most common indication was pseudophakic/aphakic bullous keratopathy followed by Ahmed glaucoma valve–related corneal decompensation and Fuchs' corneal dystrophy, respectively. Mean preoperative corneal thickness was 845.96 ± 106.9 microns. Mean lenticule thickness was 131.55 ± 42.47 microns with microkeratome for descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) and 174 ± 70.4 microns manually for descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK). Mean preoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 1.65 LogMAR (Snellen equivalent in meters 2/60 approx) which significantly improved to 0.82 LogMAR (Snellen equivalent in meters 6/36 approx) after surgery. In the DSAEK group, BCVA improved from 1.61 to 0.7 LogMAR, whereas in the DSEK group, the visual acuity improved from 1.7 to 0.94 LogMAR at one-month postoperative period. Postoperatively, two patients had graft detachment and had to undergo repeat DSAEK. ConclusionStudy results suggest the similar trends in our tertiary care hospital as in other most advanced ophthalmic centers around the world for adoption of newer techniques of lamellar corneal transplants and their outcomes.

Repeat keratoplasty in failed Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty.

Purpose:To evaluate the clinical factors associated with repeat Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) or penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) in cases of failed DSAEK.Methods:Retrospective observational study of cases with failed DSAEK admitted to our center for a repeat keratoplasty over 5 years (January 2013–Decemeber 2017) was undertaken. Demographic and perioperative details of all cases and type of repeat keratoplasty were recorded. Logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the factors affecting the type of repeat keratoplasty.Results:A total of 94 eyes with failed DSAEK were evaluated. Repeat DSAEK was performed in 66% and PKP in 34% of cases. Significantly increased odds for requiring PKP were observed in association with stromal scarring [odds ratio (OR) = 2.9, P = 0.018)], trainee surgeons (OR = 4.05, P = 0.008), intraoperative complications (OR = 4.58, P = 0.003), scleral fixated intraocular lens or anterior chamber intraocular lens in situ (OR = 33.8, P < 0.001), secondary glaucoma (OR = 3.02, P = 0.015), peripheral anterior synechiae (OR = 8.6, P < 0.001), preoperative corneal thickness (OR = 1.01, P < 0001), time to primary surgery (OR = 1.03, P = 0.03), post-DSAEK host thickness (OR = 1.01, P < 0.001), and time interval from graft failure to regraft (OR = 1.18, P < 0.001). All eyes with congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy, bee-sting-induced corneal decompensation, Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome, and multiple failed grafts underwent secondary PKP. All cases (nine eyes) that required surgical intervention for secondary glaucoma underwent secondary PKP (P < 0.001).Conclusion:Repeat DSAEK is feasible in up to two-third of cases of failed DSAEK. A PKP is required in one-third of cases, and various preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative factors are associated with unsuitability for repeat DSAEK.

Outcome of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty in eyes with an Ahmed glaucoma valve.

The purpose was to investigate the survival of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) in eyes with an Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV). The study had a retrospective case-series of patients with an AGV in the anterior chamber undergoing a DSAEK. Included in the analysis were graft size, number of previous operations, post-operative glaucoma medications, post-operative intraocular pressure (IOP) control, graft size and donor factors (age, endothelial cell density, and post-mortem time). A generalised linear model with binary logistic regression was used to test for an effect on graft survival at 1year and 1.5years. Fourteen eyes from 13 patients were included. The survival rate of the first DSAEK at 6, 12, 18, 24 and 30-months was 85%, 71%, 50%, 36% and 30%, respectively. The mean duration to graft failure was 12.9 ± 6.2months. Five of the seven failed first grafts went on to have a repeat DSAEK. The mean follow-up in this subgroup was 30.7 ± 18.4months. The survival rate of second DSAEK at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months was 100% (5/5), 100% (5/5), 75% (3/4) and 67% (2/3). Only one second DSAEK failed in the duration of the study and went on to receive a third DSAEK which failed at 18-months. The mean IOP within the first year was significantly lower for grafts that survived at 1 and 1.5years (17.4mmHg, 16.9mmHg) than for grafts that failed (19.4mmHg, 19.4mmHg) (p = 0.04, p = 0.009). DSAEK is a viable alternative to PK to restore visual function in eyes with an AGV sited in the anterior chamber. IOP is an important risk factor for graft failure.

Risk Factors Predicting the Need for Graft Exchange After Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty.

To identify the risk factors predicting the need for graft exchange after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). This is a retrospective cohort study. The study group included all 117 eyes that underwent or necessitated repeat DSAEK performed between January 2005 and June 2014 at Villa Serena-Villa Igea private hospitals (Forlì, Italy). The control group consisted of 1033 eyes that underwent only primary DSAEK during the same period. Demographic details, indications for primary surgery, ocular preoperative status and comorbidities, donor endothelial cell density (ECD), and postoperative complications were compared between the groups using univariate and multivariate analyses. The prevalence of graft failure necessitating graft exchange was 10.2% (117 of 1150 eyes). In univariate analysis, a diagnosis of Fuchs endothelial dystrophy was a protective factor against the risk of repeat DSAEK. Prior trabeculectomy or aqueous shunt implantation, postoperative graft detachment, lower donor ECD, and a rejection episode were all associated with a significantly higher risk of requiring repeat DSAEK. The presence of buphthalmos, anterior chamber intraocular lens, aphakia, or prior penetrating keratoplasty were not risk factors for the failure of DSAEK. Of these variables, multivariate analysis showed that only prior aqueous shunt implantation [odds ratio (OR) = 5.5, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.4-22.2], lower donor ECD (OR = 0.99, 95% CI, 0.997-0.999), and a documented postoperative rejection episode (OR = 18.2, 95% CI, 7.9-45.0) predicted the need for repeat DSAEK. DSAEK grafts have similarly good long-term survival regardless of the indication for surgery, lens status, or ocular comorbidities, with the only exception being the presence of an aqueous shunt.

DSAEK après échec de kératoplastie perforante

To report the anatomic and functional outcomes of Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) in 32 eyes after failed penetrating keratoplasty (PK). This retrospective, single-center observational study was performed on 32 eyes of 26 patients with failed PK grafts who underwent DSAEK between June 2009 and June 2013 at Clermont-Ferrand University Medical Center. Primary outcomes measured were: graft survival rates, functional improvement (visual acuity), and complications. Mean follow-up was 16.45 months [6-36]. Graft survival at 12 months was 76.1 % [68.1-82.3]. PK grafts cleared in 75 % of cases. Eight primary DSAEKs detached and/or decentered early (prior to day 8, average 6.22 days): 3 underwent repeat DSAEK with a new graft, and 3 underwent conversion to PK. Results were available for 26 patients at 6 months. Mean preoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in logMAR increased from 1.48 (counting fingers at 2 meters) to 0.996 logMAR (1/10) at 6 months. BCVA improved in 17 patients (68 %). BCVA improved an average of 5.2 lines (P=0.0006). Eight patients had a large number of comorbid conditions that limited final visual acuity. Anatomic outcomes are similar to other studies. Final average BCVA was limited by severe comorbid conditions and performance of DSAEK solely for comfort. Many surgical strategies have been described to decrease graft dislocation and primary graft failure. Adapting graft trephine diameter to the host cornea as measured by AS-OCT, using a nomogram based on posterior corneal curvature obtained on AS-OCT, may be an interesting approach. DSAEK allows for quick visual recovery by preserving the anterior corneal curvature. It is an essential option for restoring corneal clarity in PK failure due to endothelial decompensation. A longer follow-up would allow a comparison of graft survival for the two techniques in this context.

Textural interface opacity after Descemet-stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty

To describe cases of interface haze, also known as textural interface opacity, after Descemet-stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). Department of Cornea, External Disease, and Refractive Surgery Service, Duke Eye Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA. Retrospective case series. Patients' clinical and demographic characteristics, cornea donor information, surgical technique, histopathology, and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT) were reviewed retrospectively and clinical outcomes reported. The interface haze that developed after DSAEK comprised 2 types of textural interface opacity; that is, total (11 cases) and partial (3 cases). The time of onset of textural interface opacity ranged from 1 day to 7 weeks postoperatively. Although most patients with textural interface opacity showed improvement, with a corrected distance visual acuity better than 20/50, 3 had persistent decreased visual acuity and required repeat DSAEK. Seven eyes had concurrent phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation and DSAEK. The corneal graft was inserted with an Endoserter device in 11 eyes, an insertion forceps in 2 eyes, and a cystotome needle in 1 eye. Histopathology of the grafts of eyes that required repeat DSAEK showed no inflammation, no foreign-body deposit, and no fibrosis. Anterior segment OCT showed increased hyperreflectivity in the interface. Although the etiology of textural interface opacity is unclear, it may be related to retained ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) or an adhesive property of the OVD used during the surgery. Although most cases resolve with time, repeat DSAEK may be an effective treatment for refractory cases. Dr. Kim is a consultant to Ocular Systems, Inc. No other author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

Clinicopathologic Correlation of Textural Interface Opacities in Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty

The aim of this study was to describe the clinicopathologic correlation of textural interface opacities (TIOs) in a Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) donor button after its removal. A 75-year-old woman underwent combined phacoemulsification with intraocular lens placement and DSAEK in her right eye. She had TIOs 1 week postoperatively and continued to have poor visual acuity 8 months postoperatively. The original DSAEK graft was removed, and a repeat DSAEK procedure with a new donor disc was performed. A control corneal button was obtained from a 79-year-old woman who suffered chronic rejection and had a failed DSAEK. Both corneal specimens were sent for light and electron microscopy. Light microscopy of the donor tissue from the patient with TIOs showed stromal irregularities projecting from the cut anterior surface and the expected decrease in the endothelial cell density associated with the procedure and with artifacts. Electron microscopy examination showed irregular collagen fibrils of varying lengths at the stromal surface. Light and electron microscopy examination of the donor tissue from the control patient showed a smooth anterior stromal surface without projecting collagen fibrils. The histopathology of the endothelial disc from the patient with TIOs demonstrated variably irregular lamellae that extended from the anterior donor corneal stromal surface. These extending lamellae were absent on the anterior stromal surface of the control corneal disc, suggesting that they are one possible cause of TIOs and the subsequent suboptimal best-corrected visual acuity and quality of vision experienced by a subset of DSAEK-operated patients.

5-Fluorouracil for Epithelial Downgrowth After Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty

To report the use of intracameral 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) to treat epithelial downgrowth after performing a Descemet-stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). We describe the case of a 79-year-old woman who underwent a DSAEK for pseudophakic Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy. The patient required 2 repeat DSAEKs for graft failure and persistent, visually significant interface haze. Six months after the third and most recent DSAEK, the patient was followed up and found to have a visual acuity of 20/100. On examination, the patient continued to have a persistent interface haze. However, the patient also had a cellular anterior chamber reaction despite the administration of frequent topical corticosteroids, and subtle findings of a translucent, membranous growth over the iris. Argon laser photocoagulation of the area resulted in a whitening response, characteristic of epithelial growth. Epithelial downgrowth was diagnosed, and intracameral 5-FU was administered. One month after the injection was given, the patient's examination results and vision improved to 20/60. Six months after the single injection, the patient had a clear DSAEK graft without interface haze, a quiet chamber, and 20/30 visual acuity. Epithelial downgrowth that occurs after performing a DSAEK can be treated successfully using intracameral 5-FU.

Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty for Bullous Keratopathy After Anterior–Posterior Radial Keratotomy

To report the outcome of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) for bullous keratopathy after Sato anterior-posterior radial keratotomy (APRK). The clinical records of patients who had DSAEK surgery for bullous keratopathy after APRK were reviewed. Five eyes of 4 patients (4 men) were included. The mean age at DSAEK surgery was 81.8 ± 7.1 years (range, 73-90 years), and the mean follow-up period after the surgery was 19.8 ± 16.9 months (range, 6-48 months). The mean preoperative logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution-corrected visual acuity was 1.96 ± 0.50 (range, 1.2 to counting fingers), and this improved to 0.49 ± 0.43 (range, 0.05-1.2) at the final follow-up. The mean preoperative donor cornea central endothelial cell density was 2826.0 ± 335.7 cells per square millimeter (range, 2352-3150 cells/mm), and this declined to 863.5 ± 501.7 cells per square millimeter (range, 500-1255 cells/mm) at the final follow-up, a mean reduction of 68.2%. The mean graft size was 8.2 ± 0.21 mm (range, 8.0-8.5 mm). Postoperative complications included early graft dislocation in 3 eyes (60.0%), with successful repositioning by a single rebubbling in all cases. There was no graft rejection, and no patient required repeat DSAEK or penetrating keratoplasty for graft failure. This small series suggests that DSAEK is an effective surgical option after APRK. Although there was a high rate of graft dislocation, this was successfully managed by rebubbling. Subsequently, the attachment of each graft improved gradually over time. DSAEK seems to be a reasonable alternative to penetrating keratoplasty for patients with bullous keratopathy after APRK.

Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty for Endothelial Decompensation in Buphthalmos

To report the results of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) to treat endothelial failure in eyes with buphthalmos. Prospective interventional case series. All buphthalmic eyes with endothelial failure undergoing DSAEK by the same surgeon (M.B.) between March 2007 and January 2012 were included. Outcome measures included best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), refraction, and endothelial cell loss (assessed 6, 12, 24, 36, and 48 months postoperatively). Standardized DSAEK was performed in all cases, with minor modifications in phakic and aphakic eyes. Other outcomes included comparisons to penetrating keratoplasty (PK) published results and comparisons to visual outcomes in DSAEK for other indications. There were 14 transplants performed in 12 eyes (11 patients). Mean age was 34.9 years (range 15-54 years). The average follow-up was 21.7 ± 13.8 months (range 6-48 months). At last follow-up examination, BSCVA had improved in 11 of 13 cases, with a logMAR average value ± standard deviation of 0.74 ± 0.66 from the preoperative value of 2.07 ± 0.80. Eleven eyes reached Snellen acuity of 20/200 or better, and 5 eyes reached 20/40 or better. Mean endothelial cell loss was 40.5% ± 8.9% (range 23.7%-53.1%). Complications included graft detachment (n = 2), glaucoma progression (n = 1), and late endothelial failure (n = 1). All complications were managed successfully either by repeat DSAEK (n = 2), rebubbling (n = 1), or cyclocryocoagulation (n = 1). DSAEK may be performed safely and effectively in buphthalmic eyes, with comparable results to outcomes after PK. Visual outcomes are not substantially different after DSAEK for this indication compared to DSAEK for other indications.

Histologically proven epithelial ingrowth in failed Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) managed by repeat DSAEK

PurposeTo report a case of corneal graft failure due to epithelial ingrowth after an uneventful combined Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) and phacoemulsification cataract surgery with intraocular lens implant treated successfully with a repeat DSAEK.MethodsA 77-year-old male patient underwent combined DSAEK and phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implant implantation for Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy plus cataract in the right eye. The donor cornea was cut on the Moria ALTK system and introduced using a suture pull-through technique. After an episode of endothelial rejection, the graft failed, with signs suggesting epithelial ingrowth. It was stripped from the host cornea using a Descemet’s membrane stripper, and a Simcoe irrigation-aspiration cannula was used to remove all traces of interface material. The excised lenticule was examined histologically using a hematoxylin and eosin stain.ResultThe patient regained and maintained excellent visual acuity with no sign of recurrence of epithelial ingrowth. Histopathological evaluation of the donor tissue of the first graft showed epithelial ingrowth on the stromal surface of the graft and very few endothelial cells, in keeping with the diagnosis of graft failure.ConclusionEpithelial ingrowth is a possible cause of endothelial graft failure, but histologically proven cases are rare. Surgical intervention can achieve successful clearance, with the potential for cure and an excellent outcome.

Presentation of the Southern Society for Clinical Investigation Founders’ Medal for 2012

To report a case series of pupil abnormalities consistent with features of Urrets-Zavalia syndrome (UZS) after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) for corneal edema secondary to corneal endothelial cell dysfunction. Retrospective chart analysis of subjects who developed UZS after DSAEK at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. We present a series of 7 eyes with features consistent with UZS, after undergoing DSAEK. Elevated intraocular pressures (IOP) were noted in the early postoperative period in all cases. Five of 7 had graft dislocation in the postoperative period and required rebubbling or repeat DSAEK to obtain a well-apposed graft. Patients were followed for 3 to 14 months and showed improvement in visual acuity and IOP, but fixed dilated pupils persisted. A fixed irregular or dilated pupil is a rare complication that can be associated with DSAEK surgery. Patients with an elevated IOP and complicated postoperative course seem to be at greater risk for developing iris ischemia and pupil abnormalities consistent with the diagnosis of UZS.

Long-term Results of Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty

To report the long-term outcomes of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). A retrospective case series was conducted on 51 patients who underwent DSAEK 5 years ago. DSAEK was performed for Fuchs corneal dystrophy, pseudophakic or aphakic bullous keratopathy, or failed penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). Best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), endothelial cell counts (ECC), and current graft status were ascertained for the eyes included in the study. Episodes of rejection and need for repeat transplantation were also analyzed. Forty-seven of 51 eyes had clear grafts at the most recent postoperative visit. There were 4 graft failures treated with repeat DSAEK, and regrafts are also clear to date. One eye had an episode of rejection that was successfully treated with topical steroids. Long-term results of DSAEK were excellent. Grafts were clear despite lower than normal endothelial cell counts. To our knowledge, this is the longest running study of DSAEK outcomes to date.

Epithelial Downgrowth After Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty

To report the clinical and histological findings of a single patient who developed late epithelial downgrowth of donor origin after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). A 70-year-old woman underwent uneventful DSAEK for Fuchs dystrophy in the right eye. The donor had a thickened graft edge for 2 clock hours laterally. She recovered 20/40 vision by 3 months after operation and was maintained on daily prednisolone acetate drops. Three years postoperatively, a routine examination revealed signs of an asymptomatic epithelial downgrowth exhibited by synechiae and ectropion uvea at the area of the thickened donor edge. Six months later, a faint retrocorneal membrane limited to the donor periphery and contiguous with the thick edge was noted. Visual acuity and intraocular pressure remained unchanged. She was followed for the next 15 months, without intervention until the retrocorneal membrane grew centrally, resulting in graft edema. The iris synechiae remained unchanged. Repeat DSAEK, without iridectomy, was performed with confirmation of epithelial downgrowth of donor origin. Six months postoperatively, the patient has done well without sequela of residual downgrowth. Histopathological evaluation showed epithelial downgrowth, emanating from thickened donor edge onto the posterior graft surface. The anterior donor surface (interface) was devoid of downgrowth. X and Y DNA analysis confirmed the downgrowth of male origin (donor) in this female patient. Donor-derived epithelial downgrowth can occur after DSAEK. Although it can result in graft failure, it behaves much less aggressively than expected and observation may be indicated until symptomatic graft edema occurs. Repeat DSAEK, not penetrating keratoplasty, may be curative.

Risk Factors for Intraocular Pressure Elevation After Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty

To identify the incidence of and risk factors for intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). Retrospective review was conducted of 68 consecutive DSAEK procedures alone, or in combination with phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation or exchange, performed by two surgeons at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center between 2005 and 2009. Eyes that developed IOP elevation above 21 mm Hg after DSAEK and requiring initiation or escalation of glaucoma therapy were evaluated. Thirty-seven (54%) eyes showed IOP elevation responsive to medical treatment by a mean follow-up of 11.38 +/- 7.81 months. Six (8.8%) eyes required glaucoma surgery. In the eyes, which developed elevated IOP, gonioscopy did not reveal any new peripheral anterior synechiae formation. Prolonged topical steroid usage, rebubbling, combined DSAEK/cataract surgery, or repeat DSAEK were not significant factors (P>0.05) for development of elevated IOP, but history of previous glaucoma or ocular hypertension (OHTN) was significant (P=0.007). Intraocular pressure elevation is not uncommon in eyes after DSAEK, but most cases can be controlled with conservative management. Intraocular pressure elevation post-DSAEK occurred by mechanisms other than peripheral anterior synechial angle closure. The only significant risk factor for development of elevated IOP in our series was a previous history of glaucoma or OHTN.

Fungal Endophthalmitis After Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty-A Case Report

Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) is increasingly gaining popularity as an effective alternative to traditional penetrating keratoplasty for the treatment of endothelial diseases. However, new complications such as donor graft dislocation are seen after DSAEK. Surface venting incisions have been advocated to reduce rates of graft dislocation. We report a case of post-DSAEK fungal endophthalmitis in which the clinical course may have been influenced by the presence of surface venting incisions. A retrospective case report. A 72-year-old woman, who developed primary/iatrogenic graft failure after DSAEK, underwent a repeat DSAEK. Corneal venting incisions were reopened at the original sites as her first operation. Early postoperatively, she developed intrastromal opacities, which were thought to be epithelial downgrowth, but progression and increasing stromal and intraocular inflammation required anterior chamber and vitreous tap, which confirmed the presence of Candida parapsilosis, confirming the diagnosis of fungal endophthalmitis. Penetrating keratoplasty, removal of the posterior lamellar graft, removal of the posterior chamber intraocular lens implant (PCIOL) and capsular bag, and anterior vitrectomy were performed after failure of conservative antifungal therapy. Postoperatively, no recurrence of infection occurred, and the graft has remained clear at her most recent follow-up at 6 months, with a best-corrected visual acuity of 20/40. Corneal venting incisions in DSAEK surgery may be a portal of entry for microorganisms, leading to corneal and intraocular infection, and a high index of suspicion is warranted in the presence of stromal infiltrates or inflammation at venting sites.

Complications après Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty : étude monocentrique sur 32 yeux

To report complications during and after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) in 32 eyes at a single academic center with two techniques for delivering the endothelial corneal graft. Outcomes from a single center of 32 consecutives cases of DSAEK were analyzed prospectively. In the first 23 patients, the endothelial graft underwent single-fold delivery with forceps, and in the remaining nine patients, the graft was delivered with the Busin glide-based technique. The complications of DSAEK were noted from the intra- and postoperative periods. Graft detachment was the most common type of complication encountered. In seven of 32 eyes (22%), graft detachments were observed. Three of the 32 eyes (9.5%) were considered to have failed DSAEK, meaning that persistent edema was present after DSAEK. One of the 32 eyes had a late corneal decompensation. Three eyes (9.5%) demonstrated graft rejection. Four eyes with detached grafts were successfully rebubbled after surgery. Two of the 32 eyes (6.2%) underwent repeat DSAEK and three eyes (9.5%) underwent penetrating keratoplasty. DSAEK is becoming the preferred method for treating endothelial dysfunction because it maintains the structural integrity of the eye and provides rapid visual recovery with minimal refractive change. However, we experienced some complications. Graft detachment is the most common complication, but postoperative rebubbling allows for graft reattachment in most cases. Other common complications found in this series were graft failure and graft rejection.