Experience of preserved corneal transplantation for penetrating keratoplasty

Corneal diseases are one of the leading causes of blindness and poor vision. Keratoplasty is the only effective method of treatment in case of corneal lesion or perforation. Since the use of the native cornea is restricted by the lifespan of the material and its limited availability, it is reasonable to use the preserved corneal transplants, especially in case of emergency. The analysis of 26 penetrating keratoplasties is adduced. One group of patients (22 eyes) were performed elective surgery, and the second group (4 eyes) - urgent intervention. Patients were follow-upped for 24 months. All patients were examined by standard methods, additionally; the amount of endothelial cell was counted. Transparent engraftment was achieved on 18 eyes (81%) in the first group and three eyes (75%) in the second group. Endothelial cell density was 1500±200/mm2. Visual acuity after surgery varies depending on the disease that caused keratoplasty, postoperative course, and the condition of posterior segment of the eye. Preserved cornea is a safe against blood transmitted infections, makes a penetrating keratoplasty possible in various diseases of the cornea, including the need for emergency surgery, and allows achieving a transparent and translucent engraftment in most cases.

cornea, penetrating keratoplasty, endothelial cells