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AimsTo identify risk factors for rebubbling, and early graft failure after Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK).MethodsIn this prospective registry study, all consecutive DMEK procedures registered in the Netherlands Organ Transplant Registry were assessed (n=752). Univariable and multivariable analysis was performed using logistic regression. The effect of rebubbling on endothelial cell density was analysed using a linear mixed model.Results144 of 752 (19%) eyes underwent rebubbling. Rebubbling was successful in 101 eyes (70%). In eyes that underwent rebubbling, the graft failure rate was significantly higher than eyes that did not undergo rebubbling (30% vs 9%, respectively; OR: 4.28, 95% CI 2.72 to 6.73, pConclusionsThis Dutch registry study identified independent risk factors for DMEK graft detachment leading to rebubbling, namely recipient age and surgical complication, and early graft failure, namely transplantation before 2016 and surgical complication. Rebubbling was associated with significantly higher endothelial cell loss in the first year after surgery.

PURPOSE To report the outcomes of two-piece microkeratome-assisted MK for eyes with full-thickness traumatic corneal scars and otherwise functional endothelium following corneal penetrating injury. DESIGN Interventional case series METHODS: : In this single-center study, 41 consecutive eyes with traumatic corneal scars that underwent two-piece microkeratome-assisted mushroom keratoplasty were evaluated. The two-piece mushroom graft consisted of an anterior lamella of 9-mm diameter and a posterior lamella of 6-mm diameter. Outcome measures were best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), refractive astigmatism (RA), endothelial cell density and postoperative complication rates. RESULTS Of the 41 total cases, 38 eyes (93%) reached Snellen vision ≥20/100, 36 (88%) reached ≥20/60, 29 (71%) reached ≥20/40 and 13 (32%) reached ≥20/25 2 years following MK. Excluding eyes with vision-impairing comorbidities, baseline logMAR BSCVA (1.41±0.73) significantly improved annually during the first 2 years (p < 0.001) reaching 0.16±0.13 at year 2 which subsequently remained stable up to 10 years (p = 0.626). RA exceeded 4.5 diopters in 2 cases (5%) after wound revision for high-degree astigmatism in 5 cases. Endothelial cell loss was 35.1% at 1 year with an annual decline of 2.9% over 10 years. Elevation in IOP was observed postoperatively in 7 eyes of which 6 had pre-existing glaucoma. The 10-year cumulative risk for graft rejection and failure was 8.5% and 10% respectively. CONCLUSION Two-piece microkeratome-assisted MK for traumatic corneal scars can allow excellent visual rehabilitation with relatively stable ECL and low rates of immunologic rejection and graft failure.

PURPOSE To report the intraoperative changes in corneal pachymetry, as well as the efficacy and safety of accelerated corneal crosslinking (A-CXL) treatment using only hypo-osmolar riboflavin (HO-RF) solution in progressive keratoconus patients with thin corneas. SETTING University of Health Sciences, Prof. Dr. Cemil Tascioglu Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey. DESIGN Retrospective study. METHODS Thin keratoconic corneas (

Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate agreement between eye banks (EBs) and an image analysis reading center on endothelial cell density (ECD) determinations using the same image analysis method. Methods The Cornea Image Analysis Reading Center (CIARC) determined ECD with a single experienced analyst on EB-obtained central endothelial images from donors intended for keratoplasty from 2 eye banks, Eversight and Lions VisionGift, using the Konan center analysis method. The EBs performed ECD determination on their respective sets of images using the same analysis method with experienced eye bank technicians. Results The mean age of the 200 donors was 54 years (range 30-75 years). Seventy (35%) of the 200 patients were women, and 57 (29%) were diabetic. The mean ECD was 10 cells/mm2 greater by the EBs than by CIARC (P = 0.39), with 95% limits of agreement of [-304 to 323 cells/mm2]. The mean difference was not substantially changed when the difference between EBs and CIARC ECD was adjusted for sex, donor age, donor diabetes, CV, HEX, number of cells analyzed, and EBs as a random effect (estimated mean difference of 20 cells/mm2 after adjustment in a linear mixed model; P = 0.73). The EB-determined preoperative ECD was within 10% of the CIARC-determined ECD for 178 (89%) image sets, with 15 (8%) higher by >10% and 7 (3%) lower by >10%. Conclusions Well-trained eye bank technicians achieve comparable results for ECD determination with an experienced image analyst from an image analysis reading center when the same image analysis method is used.

To compare visual, anatomical and economical outcomes of patients with secondary anterior chamber intraocular lens (AC-IOL) implantation and secondary scleral fixated intraocular lens (SF-IOL) implantation. In this retrospective observational study, 38 aphakic patients after complicated phacoemulsification divided in two groups, AC-IOL group (17 patients receiving AC-IOL implantation) and SF-IOL group (21 patients receiving SF-IOL implantation). Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), patient reported visual outcome (VF-14) and endothelial cell density (ECD) were measured at baseline and two-year follow-up. Complication rate was registered. The global cost of each procedure and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) were calculated. No statistically significant difference was found in CDVA (logMAR 0.24 ± 0.17 vs. 0.32 ± 0.26, p = 0.27), VF-14 (68 ± 18 vs. 61 ± 20, p = 0.24), ECD (1456.48 ± 525.15 vs. 1341.71 ± 374.33, p = 0.48) and overall complication rate (p = 0.79) postoperatively between the SF-IOL group and the AC-IOL group. The ECD loss rate was significantly higher in the AC-IOL group (15.5% vs. 3.5%, p = 0.004). The average global cost of the two procedures was higher in the SF-IOL group (p

PURPOSE To compare the endothelial quality of corneas obtained from pseudophakic donors with age-matched phakic controls. METHODS Retrospective analysis of 100 corneas each from pseudophakic and phakic eyes with donor age ≥60 years in both the groups was performed. The endothelial cell density, coefficient of variation, and percentage of hexagonal cells obtained by specular microscopy were compared between the two groups. The cut-off level of endothelial cell density (ECD) taken for optical keratoplasty was 2,000 cells/mm2. RESULTS The male and female donors constituted 60% (n=120) and 40% (n=80), respectively. The mean age of the donors was 66.9±7.3 years in the phakic group and 69.9±7.7 years in pseudophakic group. The mean ECD in the phakic group was 2757.6±328.5 cells/mm2 and that in the pseudophakic group was 2225.5±471.9 cells/mm2 (P

Purpose The purpose of this study was to describe a novel bandage contact lens (BCL) interface technique for marking the Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) graft so that a single donor cornea can be used effectively for 2 recipients during acute shortage. Methods This was a retrospective comparative case series. In group A, 37 eyes underwent DMEK using a graft marked by the [DOUBLE HIGH-REVERSED-9 QUOTATION MARK]BCL interface technique" that was compared with 49 conventional DMEK grafts marked through the stromal window (group B). In group A, a resized BCL with a central 3-mm hole with the concavity up was placed between the stroma and peeled-off DM. This BCL with DM was flipped for S-stamping on the DM side. Final trephination was performed on a second Teflon block. The remaining anterior lamellar tissues of group A were used on the same day for other keratoplasty procedures. Endothelial cell density (ECD) and endothelial cell loss between the 2 groups were compared after 3 and 6 months. Results The ECD at 3 months in group A (n = 35) versus group B (n = 45) was 2228 ± 270/mm2 versus 2302 ± 254/mm2 (P = 0.48), and the ECD at 6 months (n = 23 and 22) was 2058 ± 324/mm2 versus 2118 ± 260/mm2 (P = 0.72). The corresponding endothelial cell loss was 23.3% ± 6.8% versus 20.3% ± 6.1% (P = 0.18) at 3 months and 29.1% ± 8.4% versus 26.7% ± 8.0% (P = 0.34) at 6 months. Among anterior tissues of group A, 17 (45.9%) were used for deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty, 18 (48.6%) were used for larger therapeutic and tectonic grafts, and 2 were used as keratoprosthesis carriers. Donor detachment rate (8.6% vs. 8.9%) was similar in both groups without primary graft failures. Conclusions The BCL interface technique is a simple and safe technique for stamping DMEK grafts. Anterior corneal tissues can be used for additional keratoplasties during donor shortage.

To evaluate the outcomes of corneal collagen cross-linking performed with customized epithelial debridement technique in progressive keratoconic corneas.Forty eyes of 40 patients were included in the study. We performed an ophthalmologic examination and recorded the uncorrected visual acuity, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central corneal thickness at the thinnest point (t-CCT), flat meridian keratometry (K1), steep meridian keratometry (K2), endothelial cell density (ECC), hexagonal cells (HEX), and coefficient of variation of cell areas (CV) measured preoperatively and at the 1st, 3rd, 6th and 12th months postoperatively.The mean UCVA and BCVA were increased (p 0.05). The mean flattest and steepest K readings were decreased (p 0.05). The mean t-CCT decreased in the first months after treatment and increased after 6 months. The mean t-CCT was thicker at 12 months compared to pretreatment status (p 0.05). The mean ECC and CV were not significantly different between follow-up intervals (p 0.05). The mean HEX was statistically increased (p 0.05).Corneal collagen cross-linking performed with customized epithelial debridement technique is a successful alternative method for stopping the progression of keratoconus after 12 months of treatment.

Purpose To describe and present results after a technique for cataract surgery combined with explantation of an iris-fixated phakic intraocular lens (IF-pIOL). Methods The medical records of all patients, who had undergone cataract surgery combined with IF-pIOL explantation and subsequent implantation of a posterior chamber IOL by the Single Incision Technique (SIT), were reviewed. Data collection included preoperative and postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), manifest refraction, and endothelial cell density (ECD) up to a follow-up time of 24 months. Results Fifty myopic eyes (34 patients) and 9 hyperopic eyes (6 patients) had undergone a SIT procedure mainly because of cataract (67%). Postoperative CDVA improved in both the myopic eyes to 0.16 ± 0.37 logMAR, as in the hyperopic eyes to − 0.10 ± 0.55 logMAR with no eyes having loss of Snellen lines. Mean postoperative spherical equivalent was − 0.34 ± 0.72 D and − 0.10 ± 0.55 D, respectively. ECD loss 6 months after surgery was 5% and remained stable thereafter. Conclusion SIT for combined phacoemulsification and IF-pIOL removal yields good visual and refractive results and is a safe procedure in regard to ECD loss. The technique has advantages over the conventional procedure and is easy to perform.

Aims: To analyse the changes in endothelial cell density (ECD) after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and to identify the factors implicated. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective, consecutive, and non-randomised, case-control study. All 23-gauge vitrectomies were performed by a single surgeon at a tertiary centre. ECD was measured at baseline before surgery and on postoperative Days 30, 90, and 180. The fellow eye was used as the control eye. The primary outcome was a change in ECD after PPV. Results: Seventeen patients were included in this study. The mean age of the patients was 65 years. The mean ECD count at baseline was 2340 cells/mm2. The median ECD loss in the vitrectomised eye was 3.6%, 4.0%, and 4.7% at Days 30, 90, and 180, respectively, compared to +1.94%, +0.75%, +1.01%, respectively, in the control eye. The relative risk of ECD loss after PPV was 2.48 (C.I. 1.05–5.85, p = 0.0247). The pseudophakic eyes lost more ECD than the phakic eyes, but this was not statistically significant. There were no significant differences in diagnosis, age, surgical time, or tamponade used after surgery. Conclusions: Routine pars plana vitrectomy had an impact on the corneal endothelial cells until Day 180 post-op. The phakic status was slightly protective against ECD loss after PPV, although it was not statistically significant. The pathophysiology of corneal cell damage after routine PPV remains unclear. Further studies are required to confirm these findings.

Objectives We evaluated the effects of various graft-marking techniques on surgical results in patients undergoing Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty. Materials and methods In this single-center retrospective study, 65 eyes from 55 patients that had received various types of marking or no marking and that had been used for Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty endothelial graft preparation were included. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to the marking technique used: group I (F-marked graft; 17 eyes), group II (asymmetric triangle-marked graft; 12 eyes), and group III (unmarked graft; 36 eyes). The main outcome measurements were best-corrected visual acuity, endothelial cell density, central corneal thickness, postoperative complications, rebubbling, and secondary keratoplasty rates. Results In groups I, II, and III, rates of patients with 6-month best-corrected visual acuity ≥ 20/32 were 35.7%, 77.8%, and 71.9%, respectively (P = .04). The mean 6-month endothelial cell density decrease for each group was 43.3%, 48.8%, and 46.4%, respectively (P = .589), whereas the mean 6-month central corneal thickness decrease for each group was 7.7%, 15.8%, and 34.0%, respectively (P = .001). Rates of primary graft failure for groups I, II, and III were 35.3%, 8.3%, and 13.9%, respectively. Rebubbling was performed in 21.5% of eyes, and secondary keratoplasty was required in 29.2% of eyes. Conclusions Although graft-marking techniques for Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty greatly facilitate graft positioning during surgery, both the potential toxic effects of alcohol on the endothelium when marking with gentian violet dye and the risk of graft detachment with asymmetric marking must be considered.

Background: Mitomycin C is an antimetabolite and affects corneal endothelial cells as measured by noncontact specular microscopy after trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C (MMC). Objective: To evaluate the corneal endothelial cells changes after trabeculectomy with MMC. Patients and methods: Patients were categorized into 2 groups, group A(25 eyes) were managed by trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C injection, group B (25 eyes) were managed by trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C sponge-applied technique which was carried out on patients attending at Ophthalmology Department of Al-Azhar University Hospitals from March 2019 to February 2021. Follow-up by specular microscopy preoperatively and 1 month and 6 months postoperatively to evaluate corneal endothelial cells density and morphological changes. Results: There was a significant reduction in the endothelial cell density and percentage of hexagonal cells and increased variation in cell size in the two studied groups after 1 month and 6 months compared with preoperative values. With no differences between the two studied groups. Conclusion: Trabeculectomy with both MMC injection and sponge applied caused a significant loss of the corneal endothelial cells intraoperatively or at the early postoperative period. Progressive cell losses due to MMC were not a major concern.

Purpose To compare the effects of femtosecond laser assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) and manual phacoemulsification on cumulative dissipated energy (CDE), torsional amplitude, and endothelial cell density (ECD). Patients and Methods This prospective, randomized study was conducted at Oka Eye Clinic (Fukuoka, Japan). Surgeries were performed using FLACS (with LenSx) or conventional technique in adults ≥20 years with grade 2–4 cataracts. Visits included preoperative, surgery day, and 5 postoperative visits (days 1, 4–10, 20–40, 60–120, and 150–210). Primary endpoint was CDE. Secondary endpoints included ECD percent change at day 150–210 versus preoperative visit and average torsional amplitude on surgery day. Exploratory endpoints included central corneal thickness and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA). Superiority of FLACS to conventional technique was evaluated using t-tests based on a mixed model for repeated measures. Results Full analysis set included 53 eyes per group. Mean cataract grade was 2.92±0.58 in FLACS and 2.94±0.57 in conventional group. FLACS versus conventional method had significantly lower mean CDE (0.213±0.334 versus 1.718±0.898%-seconds, respectively; P, Video Abstract Point your SmartPhone at the code above. If you have a QR code reader the video abstract will appear. Or use: https://youtu.be/xzalrupRtlw

BACKGROUND:Intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation is a rare but serious complication of surgical treatment of patients with cataract. Among the factors contributing to its development, the main ones are pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX), high axial myopia, chronic uveitis, history of eye injury and age. There is no universal IOL dislocation correction technique. PURPOSE:To evaluate the impact on corneal endothelium of two different methods of IOL dislocation correction: IOL repositioning with transscleral suture fixation or IOL exchange to iris-claw one. MATERIALS AND METHODS:Within the study, 78 patients were examined and operated. All patients were divided into two groups: in the first group, IOL was repositioned with transscleral suture fixation, and in the second group IOL was exchanged to iris-claw IOL. Groups were equal by gender and age. Key estimated indicators were endothelial cell density and coefficient of variation reflecting the degree of polymegatism. RESULTS:Endothelial cell density was significantly lower both before surgery and at any term after it, in the group with IOL exchange, and coefficient of variation was significantly higher in the group with IOL exchange throughout this study. CONCLUSION:The choice of technique for IOL dislocation correction is the basis of success in surgical treatment. Certain preoperative examination data should be definitely considered, including the degree of dislocation, IOL type, IOP level, endothelial cell density and presence of concomitant ocular conditions.

To present the outcomes of attempts to salvage total graft detachment following Descemet's membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK).A search of the electronic medical records of two tertiary medical centers for all patients who underwent DMEK yielded six cases of postoperative total graft detachment (2.54%). Graft salvage was attempted in all cases using repeated intracameral graft staining, unfolding, and reattachment to the stroma under 20% hexafluoride gas.In all cases, a free-floating totally detached graft was identified in the anterior chamber shortly after surgery. Salvage surgery resulted in a central, well-oriented, and fully attached graft. In three cases, the primary graft failed, and in two, the corneas cleared at first but failed after 2 months and 1 year respectively. In one case, the cornea remained clear during 1 year of follow-up but had a very low endothelial cell density.Reattachment of fully detached DMEK graft is technically possible, but graft manipulation during the primary and secondary operations is likely to damage the endothelial cells, resulting in primary or early graft failure. If graft salvage is attempted, the probability of primary or early graft failure should be discussed with the patient, and expectations should be tempered accordingly.ZIEL: Präsentation der Ergebnisse der Rettungsversuche nach vollständiger Transplantatablösung nach Descemet-Membran-Transplantation (Descemetʼs membrane endothelial keratoplasty – DMEK-Methode).Datenbankrecherche des Rabin Medical Center und des Rambam Medical Center in Israel für alle Patienten, die zwischen Januar 2015 und Januar 2020 eine Hornhauttransplantation erhielten, wobei bei 236 Patienten eine DMEK durchgeführt wurde, in 6 Fällen wurde eine vollständige Transplantatablösung beobachtet (2,54%). Die Rettung des Transplantats wurde mit erneuter intrakameraler Transplantatfärbung, -entfaltung und erneuter Anheftung an das Stroma mit 20% Hexafluoridgas versucht.In allen Fällen konnte in der Vorderkammer ein komplett abgelöstes Transplantat kurz nach der Operation gefunden werden. Mit der Revisionsoperation gelang es in allen Fällen, ein zentriertes, richtig orientiertes, total angebrachtes Transplantat wiederherzustellen. In 3 Fällen ist die Hornhaut nach der Revisionsoperation nicht aufgeklart. In 2 Fällen waren die Hornhäute zuerst klar, aber das Transplantat versagte nach 2 Monaten und 1 Jahr. In einem Fall war die Hornhaut 1 Jahr lang klar, hatte dann aber eine sehr niedrige Endothelzelldichte.Das erneute Anbringen eines frei schwimmenden DMEK-Transplantats nach vollständiger Ablösung ist technisch möglich, aber die Manipulation des Transplantats während der primären und sekundären Operation kann die Endothelzellen beschädigen, was zu einem primären oder frühen Versagen des Transplantats führt. Wenn eine Transplantatrettung versucht wird, sollte die Wahrscheinlichkeit eines primären oder frühen Transplantatversagens mit dem Patienten besprochen und seine Erwartungen entsprechend relativiert werden.

To compare the clinical features and long-term treatment outcomes of patients undergoing secondary intraocular lens (IOL) surgery with scleral-fixated (SFIOL) versus retropupillary iris-claw IOL (RPICIOL).Consecutive patients treated between June 2014 and December 2019 at two tertiary centres were retrospectively reviewed. The primary outcome was the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Secondary outcomes included factors associated with significant corneal endothelial injury and postoperative redislocation.This study included 395 eyes undergoing surgery with SFIOL (237 eyes, 60%) or RPICIOL (158 eyes, 40%), with no differences in baseline BCVA (p = 0.76) or endothelial cell density (ECD) (p = 0.39). Compared with the SFIOL group, the RPICIOL group had faster visual recovery (postoperative month 1, 20/37 vs. 20/46, p = 0.005) sustained to over 36 months (p = 0.034), favourable absolute prediction errors (within 0.5D, 67.3% vs. 54.9%, p = 0.027), and shorter operation times (52.7 vs. 60.9 min, p = 0.015). There was no difference in ECD after 12 months (P = 0.282). Over a mean follow-up duration of 33 months (152 cases3 years, 38.5%), the SFIOL group experienced more cases of tilted/decentred IOLs (14 vs. 1, p = 0.006), suture exposure (7 vs. 0, p = 0.045), and redislocation (17.7% vs. 10.1%, p 0.001). Multivariable regression showed that a final BCVA below 20/40 was associated with SFIOL (P = 0.007), older age (p = 0.001), intraoperative complications (p = 0.002), past history of vitrectomy/glaucoma surgery or uveitis (p = 0.046), and surgically induced astigmatism1D (p = 0.029).RPICIOL appears to be a safe and effective surgical option for secondary IOL surgery over a long-term follow-up, comparing favourably against conventional SFIOL.

Purpose: To investigate the effects of horizontal and oblique strabismus surgery on the corneal endothelial cell layer. Methods: Eighty-three eyes of 56 patients were prospectively evaluated. Corneal endothelial cell layer analysis was performed with a specular microscopy device (EM-3000; Tomey Corporation) preoperatively and 1 day, 2 weeks, and 2 months postoperatively. Endothelial cell density, coefficient of variation, average cell area, standard deviation (SD) of the endothelial cell area, hexagonality, and central corneal thickness (CCT) were evaluated. Results: Endothelial cell density, average cell area, and SD of the endothelial cell area did not show a statistically significant change postoperatively. In the one and two horizontal muscle surgery groups, the hexagonality measurements 2 weeks postoperatively were significantly lower compared to preoperative values. In the one horizontal muscle surgery group and when all patients were examined, CCT 1 day postoperatively was significantly higher than 2 weeks postoperatively. No significant change was observed postoperatively in any of the endothelial parameters in the oblique surgery group. Spherical equivalent was positively correlated with endothelial cell density and CCT, and it was negatively correlated with the average cell area and age. Age was positively correlated with the average cell area and the SD of the endothelial cell area, negatively correlated with endothelial cell density and hexagonality, and was not correlated with the coefficient of variation or CCT. Conclusions: There is a temporary effect of horizontal strabismus surgery on hexagonality and corneal thickness. A definite decrease in cellular hexagonality occurs as the number of endothelial cells decrease and cell areas increase with age. [ J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabimus . 2021;58(4):254–260.]

PurposeTo investigate the long-term safety and efficacy of implantable collamer lens (ICL) V4c implantation and changes in the anterior lens density (ALD) in patients with myopia ≥40 years of age.MethodsThis prospective study included 104 eyes of 52 patients >40 years of age before ICL V4c implantation. Spherical equivalent (SE), uncorrected distance visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure, endothelial cell density, anterior chamber depth, anterior chamber volume and anterior chamber angle preoperatively, at 1 and 3 months, and at 3 years postoperatively were recorded. Pentacam HR was used to analyse ALD changes at a depth of 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mm within a 3 mm diameter range around the pupil’s centre.ResultsThe overall follow-up was uneventful at 42±7.1 months; the safety index at last follow-up was 1.26±0.35 and the efficacy index was 0.91±0.41. No eye lost the Snellen line of CDVA, 76% of the eyes had an increase in CDVA for ≥1 line and 62% had an SE within ±0.50 dioptre. The increase in ALD at 0.5, 1 and 1.5 mm was 16.52%±10.46%, 16.72%±9.85% and 17.28%±11.93%, respectively. Preoperative, 1-month and 3-month postoperative ALDs showed correlations with SE and age, and ALD at last follow-up was correlated only with age. There was no correlation between ALD and any other parameters.ConclusionICL V4c shows long-term safety and efficacy in people ≥40 years of age. ALD increased in such patients, which may be related to age and SE.

Posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy (PPCD) is a corneal disorder of the endothelium and Descemet’s membrane. Although reports of corneal refractive surgery including laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), and small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) in PPCD are minimal, these procedures have been shown to be safe and effective in this patient population. Proceeding with corneal refractive surgery in eyes with PPCD raises concerns regarding corneal integrity, including long-term biomechanical instability, risk of ectasia, endothelial cell loss, disease progression, and corneal decompensation. Thus, LASIK, PRK, and SMILE should be considered with caution. This commentary explores the patient characteristics associated with favorable surgical outcomes and factors that weigh against proceeding with refractive surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the central corneal thickness, endothelial cell density and morphology in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). METHODS: We analysed corneal endothelium, i.e. central corneal thickness (CCT), endothelial cell density (ECD), coefficient of variation in cell size (CV), and hexagonality (Hex) with specular microscopy in patients with type 2 DM and compared with age-matched controls. The influence of diabetic retinopathy (DR) severity, duration of DM, and level of glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) was also analysed. RESULTS: The study cohort included 592 eyes of 592 diabetic patients and 596 eyes of 596 control subjects. A significant difference was found in CCT (522.1 ± 36.6 μm in DM, 514.9 ± 37.1 μm in controls; P = 0.001), ECD (2484.5 ± 299.5 cells/mm(2) in DM, 2555.9 ± 258.2 cells/mm(2) in controls; P = 0.017), CV (40.3 ± 6.1 in DM, 37.2 ± 6.1 in controls; P 10 years) and poor glycaemic control (HbA1c > 7.5%) were associated with similar results. A significantly reduced ECD (P

Purpose To investigate the impact of tobacco use on corneal thickness and corneal endothelial health. Methods We searched the PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central and all affiliated databases of the Web of Science on 20 July 2020. Two authors reviewed the studies and extracted the data in an independent fashion. Studies were reviewed qualitatively in the text, and central corneal thickness (CCT) and corneal endothelial characteristics (endothelial cell density, endothelial cell variability, average of endothelial cell size and endothelial cell hexagonality) were introduced for quantitative analyses. Results Eighteen studies (2077 were smokers and 6429 non-smokers) were identified, of which 17 studies provided data eligible for one or more of the quantitative analyses. When compared to non-smokers, smokers had a higher CCT (+3.3 μm, 95% CI: +0.9 to +5.7 μm, p = 0.007) and a lower endothelial cell density (-140 cells/mm2 , 95% CI: -30 to -250 cells/mm2 , p = 0.01). Other corneal endothelial measures did not differ significantly. Conclusion Tobacco use is associated with a higher CCT and lower corneal endothelium cell density, but the clinical impact of these findings is small. Further studies are warranted on patients with a priori poor corneal health, where smoking may constitute an important risk of further progression, for example upon anterior segment surgery.

This retrospective investigated the impact of donor age, recipient age, donor endothelial cell density, vis-à-tergo, and additional intraoperative lens exchange (triple-procedure) on overall early and late phase postoperative endothelial cell density (ECD) following penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) in various diagnosis groups.In 590 cases with diagnosed keratoconus (KC), Fuchs dystrophy (FD) and herpes simplex virus infection (HSV) who underwent PKP or triple surgery, the ECD in cells/mmCorrelation analysis demonstrated a weak negative correlation between the patient's ECD and donor age (early postoperative stage: r = - 0.25, p 0.001; after last suture removal: r = - 0.16; p = 0.003). Regression analysis revealed that donor age did not impact postoperative patient ECD. There was a weak negative correlation between postoperative ECD and recipient age (early postoperative stage: r = - 0.31, p 0.001; after last suture removal: r = - 0.34, p 0.001). Regression analysis confirmed the negative impact of recipient age on patient ECD (early postoperative stage: β = - 13.2, p = 0.001; after last suture removal: β = - 4.6, p 0.001). Correlation analysis determined a weak positive correlation between postoperative ECD and donor endothelial cell density (early postoperative stage: r = 0.37, p 0.001; after last suture removal: r = 0.32, p 0.001). Regression analysis also determined that donor endothelial cell density had a positive impact on postoperative ECD following last suture removal (β = 0.4, p 0.001). Vis-à-tergo and additional lens exchange (triple procedure) had no significant effect on postoperative ECD (p 0.05). This was also confirmed by the results of the regression analysis after last suture removal.Recipient age and donor endothelial cell density have a significant impact on postoperative ECD following PKP. Not all of the statistical tests proved donor age to be a significant influencing factor. Vis-à-tergo and additional lens exchange (triple procedure) had no significant effect on postoperative ECD following PKP.Ziel dieser retrospektiven Arbeit war es, den Einfluss des Spenderalters, des Empfängeralters, der Spenderendothelzelldichte, der Vis-à-tergo und des zusätzlichen Linsenaustausches (Triple Procedure) auf die postoperative Endothelzelldichte (EZD) insgesamt und im Zusammenhang mit zugrunde liegenden Erkrankungen in der Früh- und Spätphase nach perforierender Keratoplastik (PKP) zu untersuchen.Bei 590 Fällen mit den Diagnosen Keratokonus (KK), Fuchs-Dystrophie (FD) und Herpesvireninfektion (HSV), die eine PKP oder eine Triple-Operation erhalten haben, wurde präoperativ, mit liegenden Fäden früh postoperativ und nach Komplettfadenentfernung die EZD in Zellen/mmZwischen der EZD des Patienten und dem Spenderalter zeigte sich in der Korrelationsanalyse ein schwach negativer Zusammenhang (früh postoperativ: r = − 0,25; p 0,001; nach Komplettfadenentfernung: r = − 0,16; p = 0,003). Die Regressionsanalyse ergab, dass das Alter des Spenders die postoperative EZD nicht beeinflusst. Die EZD des Patienten korrelierte schwach negativ mit dem Empfängeralter (früh postoperativ: r = − 0,31; p 0,001; nach Komplettfadenentfernung: r = − 0,34; p 0,001). Die Regressionsanalyse bestätigte, dass die EZD des Patienten durch das Empfängeralter zu beiden postoperativen Zeitstadien negativ beeinflusst wird (früh postoperativ: β = − 13,2; p = 0,001; nach Komplettfadenentfernung: β = − 4,6; p 0,001). In der Korrelationsanalyse wurde ein schwach positiver Zusammenhang zwischen der postoperativen EZD und der Spenderendothelzelldichte festgestellt (früh postoperativ: r = 0,37; p 0,001; nach Komplettfadenentfernung: r = 0,32; p 0,001). Auch die Regressionsanalyse ergab, dass die Spenderendothelzelldichte die postoperativen EZD nach Komplettfadenentfernung positiv beeinflusst (β = 0,4; p 0,001). Die Einflussfaktoren Vis-à-tergo und Triple-Operation zeigten keinen signifikanten Einfluss auf die postoperative EZD (p 0,05). Dies bestätigten auch die Ergebnisse der Regressionsanalyse nach der Komplettfadenentfernung.Empfängeralter und Spenderendothelzelldichte haben signifikant Einfluss auf die postoperative EZD nach PKP. Das Spenderalter kann nicht in allen Tests als signifikante Einflussgröße nachgewiesen werden. Die Vis-à-tergo und die Triple-Operation haben keinen signifikanten Einfluss auf die postoperative EZD nach PKP.

To investigate effects of beta blocker (BB; timolol or betaxolol), latanoprost, and latanoprost-timolol combination (LTC) drugs on corneal endothelial cell density (ECD) and central corneal thickness (CCT) in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) patients. Sixty-one patients in BB group, 64 patients in latanoprost group, 59 patients in LTC group, and 58 healthy cases in control group were included. Intraocular pressures (IOP), ECDs, and CCTs of groups were recorded at initial (pre-treatment) period, first and third years after treatment, and comparisons were done. In groups, changes of ECDs according to time were not significant ( p > 0.05). In BB and control groups, changes of CCTs according to time were not significant ( p > 0.05). In latanoprost and LTC groups, CCTs in both first and third years were significantly thinner than initial CCTs ( p = 0.039 for latanoprost, p = 0.041 for LTC at first year; p = 0.018 for latanoprost, p = 0.032 for LTC at third year). In latanoprost and LTC groups, CCTs of patients using drugs for 1 year were similar to those of patients using drugs for 3 years ( p > 0.05). In our study, uses of BB, latanoprost or LTC did not affect ECD. BB drugs had no effect on CCT. Although latanoprost and LTC appeared to reduce CCT at 3-year follow-up from the statistical point of view, this 8–10 μm difference in CCT was not clinically significant.

Tushya Om Parkash,1 Rohit Om Parkash,1 Shruti Mahajan,1 Rasik Vajpayee2– 4 1Cataract Department, Dr Om Parkash Eye Institute, Amritsar, Punjab, India; 2Eye Department, Vision Eye Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; 3Eye Department, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; 4Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, AustraliaCorrespondence: Shruti MahajanDr Om Parkash Eye Institute, 117-A, The Mall, Amritsar, Punjab, 143001, IndiaTel +91-9872553424Email shrutim84@gmail.comPurpose: To describe an innovative technique of using a chopper as a shield for preventing mechanical corneal endothelial trauma that can occur during the phacoemulsification of brunescent cataracts.Methods: This prospective study included patients with hard cataracts (grade nuclear opalescence 4 and above on LOCS III) who underwent phacoemulsification surgery. The chopper shield technique was performed in 48 eyes of 44 patients. The technique entailed placing the chopper horizontally as a shield anterior to the emulsifying nuclear fragment between the phaco tip and corneal endothelium to prevent nucleus fragments from coming into contact with the corneal endothelium. Outcome measures included cumulative dissipated energy (CDE), corneal edema (day one), CCT (assessed at one day, one week, and one month), and endothelial cell density assessed at three months.Results: Of the 48 eyes included in the study, 23 were males and 25 were females (mean age: 70.02± 5.98years). Preoperatively, mean central corneal thickness (CCT) was 529.62± 21.70 microns, and endothelial cell counts were 2258.76± 182.22 cells per mm2. Postoperatively on day one, CCT increased to 563.93± 24.53 microns, a 6.47% increase from preoperative central corneal thickness. CCT became 534.83± 22.64 microns on postoperative day seven, a 0.98% increase from preoperative CCT. Endothelial cell loss was 6.77% at three months from the day of surgery.Conclusion: The chopper shield technique offers continuous protection to the corneal endothelium by minimizing endothelial cell loss during phacoemulsification of dense nuclear cataracts.Keywords: cataract, phacoemulsification, hard cataract, corneal endothelium, chopper shield

PURPOSE To compare the effects of phacoemulsification surgery (PE) using an anterior chamber maintainer (ACM) and conventional PE using an ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) on corneal endothelial cells. SETTING Department of Ophthalmology, Celal Bayar University, Manisa, Turkey. DESIGN Prospective randomized controlled trial. METHODS Eyes in the OVD group (n = 50) underwent conventional PE, whereas eyes in the ACM group (n = 50) underwent PE using an ACM. Endothelial cell density (ECD), coefficient of variation (CV), hexagonality (HEX), and noncontact central corneal thickness (CCT) measurements were performed by specular microscopy before and at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after PE. RESULTS This study included 100 eyes of 97 patients undergoing PE. The mean age was 64.7 ± 10.6 years in the OVD group, 64.0 ± 12.6 years in the ACM group (P > .05). The groups did not differ significantly in preoperative ECD, CV, HEX, and CCT or total PE time (P > .05 for all). ECD was significantly lower in the ACM group compared with the OVD group at postoperative 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months (P = .002, P = .002, and P = .001, respectively). Similarly, ECD loss compared with preoperative value was greater in the ACM group at all postoperative timepoints (P = .003, P = .001, and P = .001, respectively). CV increased and HEX decreased in both groups postoperatively (P > .05 for both). CCT showed a transient increase of less than 10 μm at postoperative 1 month in both groups (P = .296). CONCLUSIONS PE with ACM was associated with greater corneal ECD loss compared with conventional PE. ACM should not be used during PE in patients with limited corneal endothelial reserve.

To investigate the impact of oxygen delivery on the clinical outcomes of accelerated transepithelial corneal cross-linking (A-TE CXL). Fifty-seven eyes of 44 progressive keratoconus (KCN) patients were randomly separated into two age–sex-matched groups. Twenty-nine eyes of 23 KCN patients that underwent oxygen-supplemented A-TE CXL formed the study group and 28 eyes of 21 patients treated with the same procedure but under room air conditions formed the control group. All patients were examined preoperatively, one, six and twelve months after the procedure. The logMAR spectacle-corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), maximum keratometry (Kmax), mean keratometry, apical posterior keratometry, cylindrical power, minimum central corneal thickness, keratoconus vertex front and back, ocular aberrations, endothelial cell density (ECD), demarcation line depth (DLD) and proportion measures were recorded for statistical analysis. The preoperative, 1st, 6th and 12th months mean Kmax values of the study group were 55.14 ± 3.99D, 54.85 ± 3.82D, 54.37 ± 3.84D and 54.40 ± 3.86, respectively, and 54.47 ± 3.17D, 54.52 ± 2.97D, 54.25 ± 2.95D and 54.20 ± 2.97 in the control group. The mean Kmax value was decreased significantly more in the oxygen-supplemented group after 12 months compared to the control group (p = 0.019). The mean DLD was also significantly deeper in the study group (320 ± 17 µm) compared to the control group (269 ± 19 µm). There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of ECD alterations at any of the time intervals (p > 0.05). Keratoconus progression was significantly halted in both groups 12 months after the treatment. In addition, oxygen supplementation during A-TE CXL further significantly increased clinical outcomes compared to room air conditions without any significant change in ECD measures.

Purpose: to evaluate outcomes and to expose possible specific complications of two-piece mushroom keratoplasty.Patients and methods. A total of 9 patients (9 eyes) with corneal perforations and deep stromal opacities involving the Descemet membrane were undergone surgery. In all cases, preserved hypothermic corneoscleral buttons (in Borzenok– Moroz medium) for up to 5 days were used as donor material. The two-piece mushroom keratoplasty was performed using a microkeratome and vacuum trephines set in the variant proposed by M. Busin.Results. Success survival was obtained in 78 % of patients (7 out of 9 cases). Best spectaclecorrected visual acuity (BSCVA) 1 year after surgery averaged 0.54 ± 0.20. The average of corneal astigmatism was 3.41 ± 1.89 D. Endothelial cell density in 6 months after surgery was on average 2364 ± 236/mm2, and in 1 year — 2082 ± 228/mm2. A false chamber formation between separate parts of the graft as a specific complication was detected in 2 patients on 1 day after surgery. In one case it was eliminated by air re-injecting into the ocular anterior chamber. The second patient underwent conventional PKP due to the lack of graft adaptation. In addition, 1 patient also underwent conventional PKP as a result of postoperative crystalline infectious keratopathy, which is the non-specific complication of mushroom keratoplasty.Conclusion. The two-piece microkeratome-assisted mushroom keratoplasty is an effective method of surgical treatment of corneal perforations and deep stromal opacities involving the Descemet membrane.

PRECIS XEN implant was associated with low endothelial cell density (ECD) reduction. In fact, when combined with phacoemulsification, the reduction in ECD was similar to that expected after phacoemulsification alone. PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of XEN implant, either alone or in combination with phacoemulsification, on ECD. METHODS Multicenter, prospective, observational study conducted on consecutive open-angle glaucoma patients, who were enrolled in the Italian XEN Glaucoma Treatment Registry and have complete endothelial cell count data at baseline and at 6 months after implantation. The primary endpoint was the mean percentage change in ECD between baseline and month 6. RESULTS The study included 108 open-angle glaucoma eyes (68 in the XEN-solo and 40 eyes in the XEN+phaco groups) and 60 control eyes (phaco-solo group). As compared with baseline, mean (95% confidence interval, CI) ECD reduction was -5.6% (-7.0% to -4.9%), -11.3% (-13.8% to -10.9%), and -13.0% (14.8% to -11.8%) in the XEN-solo, XEN+phaco, and phaco-solo groups, respectively (P=0.0004

OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate the demographic features of corneal donors and available data of corneas in our eye bank during a 14-year period. MATERIALS AND METHODS The demographic features of the corneal donors, the causes of death, the death-to-excision interval, serology results, the mean endothelial cell density, and the reasons for discarding the corneas were retrospectively evaluated. RESULTS During the study period, 6524 corneas were retrieved from 3326 donors (76.1% male, 23.9% female). Mean donor age was 43.7 ± 16.0 years (range, 4-75 years; median 45.0 years). The most common cause of death was cardiovascular disease (n = 1467; 44.1%). The most common reason for discarding corneas was positive serology (n = 509; 78.6%). The mean endothelial cell density was 3030.1 ± 484.3 cells/mm². There was a weak negative statistically significant correlation between age and endothelial cell density (Pearson correlation coefficient r = -0.187, P < .001). Multiorgan donations made up 1.5% of the whole group (n = 50). CONCLUSIONS We believe that preoperative detailed evaluations of graft quality in addition to review of donor-related medical records and data from previous surgeries, after collecting them in a single system, will have a positive effect on postoperative corneal survival.

Purpose: To ascertain whether death-to-preservation time (DPT) is associated with donor endothelial cell density (ECD), primary graft failure (PGF), and infection. Methods: Donor corneas aged older than 10 years with ECD 2000 to 4500 cells/mm2 were procured between 2011 and 2018 by a single eye bank. Donor corneas were analyzed retrospectively for the main outcome measures of PGF, infection, and ECD. Means and proportions of study parameters were compared between corneas with long and short DPT, defined as greater or less than 14 hours, respectively, excluding corneas with a history of intraocular surgery or diabetes. Multivariate analyses were performed using logistic regression, adjusting for donor age at time of death, history of diabetes mellitus, and history of cataract surgery. Results: Among 12,015 corneas, those with long DPT had a statistically but not clinically significant higher ECD than that of corneas with short DPT (2754 vs. 2724 cells/mm2, P < 0.01). There was no difference in PGF and infections in corneas with long versus short DPT (0.28% vs. 0.26%, P = 0.86; 0.43% vs. 0.29%, P = 0.51, respectively). Conclusions: Longer DPT is not associated with a clinically meaningful reduction in donor ECD, PGF, or infection.

Purpose To assess the corneal endothelial cells morphology and count in keratoconus patients and their correlation with different stages of keratoconus. Methods Prospective non randomized multi-centric clinical study included 150 eyes of 150 keratoconus patients. Four centers in Egypt participated in this study included: Departments of Ophthalmology in Alexandria University, Tanta University and Port Said University and Alex I-Care hospital. Pentacam (Wavelight Oculyzer II) and specular microscopy (Tomey EM-3000) were done to all eyes. Keratoconic eyes were classified according to Amsler classification into stage 1, 2 and 3. Stage 1 included 99 eyes, stage 2 included 32 eyes & stage 3 included 19 eyes. Results The mean age of keratoconus patients was 24.07 ± 6.154 years. Forty five cases were males (30%) and 105 cases were females (70%). There was statistically significant difference in endothelial cell density (p p = 0.012) between different stages of keratoconus eyes. Regarding cell surface area, there was statistically significant difference in cell surface area between different stages of keratoconus eyes (p p Conclusions Qualitative and quantitative structural changes were seen in endothelial cells of keratoconus eyes by using specular microscopy. For stages 1 and 2, keratoconus may not affect the corneal endothelim significantly. The endothelium in stage 3 shows significant changes regarding polymegathism and pleomorphism.

Purpose To evaluate the outcomes of keratoplasty for xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) performed at a tertiary eye care center. Methods A retrospective review of medical records of those patients who were clinically diagnosed to have XP (54 eyes of 36 patients) and underwent keratoplasty; either deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK, four eyes), endothelial keratoplasty (EK, eight eyes), or penetrating keratoplasty (PK, 42 eyes) from 1994 to 2018. Results The median age at surgery was 20.6 years (interquartile range [IQR], 14.6-27.6 years) and 20 (55.6%) were males. Graft failure occurred in 15 eyes (35.7%) in the PK group and two eyes (50%) in the DALK group; none failed in the EK group. The probability of graft survival in the PK group was 97.2% ± 2.7% at 1 year, 74.0% ± 8.0% at 2 years, and 54.8% ± 11.7% at 5 years. In the PK group, 13 eyes needed antiglaucoma medications, 11 eyes developed graft infiltrate, and 13 eyes needed secondary interventions (cataract surgery, excision biopsy, and tarsorrhaphy). In the EK group, three eyes needed secondary interventions (excision biopsy). Median postoperative endothelial cell density at the last follow-up in the PK group was 1214 cells/mm2 (IQR, 623-2277 cells/mm2). Conclusion Despite the complexities of the ocular surface and adnexal issues in XP, keratoplasty had reasonably good outcomes. More than half of the PK grafts survived 5 years with no failures in the EK group. Regular follow-up and timely management of suture-related infections raised intraocular pressure, and suspicious ocular surface lesions, in addition to solar protection, are important for the success of keratoplasty in these eyes.

To analyse and compare the alterations in corneal endothelium morphology induced by different materials and durations of wearing soft contact lenses (CL) among young adults living in Kuala Lumpur.Healthy soft CL wearers were invited to participate in this study. Visual acuity (VA) was measured using the Snellen chart, and subjective refraction was performed using cross-cylinder technique. Standard ocular assessments were conducted using a slit lamp biomicroscope and morphology of corneal endothelial cells (endothelial cell density, ECD, coefficient variation, COV, hexagonality, HEX and central corneal thickness, CCT) were evaluated using a non-contact specular microscope. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA and data from the right eye only is included.A total of 72 subjects (32 SiHy and 40 HCL wearers) and 24 non-CL wearers (control) participated in this study. The gender distribution for study subjects was 13 males and 59 females, with a mean age 22.15 ± 1.84 years old. The mean refraction was -1.86 ± 1.25DS. The duration of wearing CL ranged from 1 to 9 years. Subjects were later divided into 2 groups following duration of CL wear: Group 1 (5 years) and Group 2 (≥5 years) for analysis purposes. Statistical analysis showed significant alterations in ECD, COV and HEX of CL wearers (p 0.05), with more changes found in HCL and Group 2 wearers. No significant change was found in CCT.This study concludes that soft CL wear induced alterations in the morphology of corneal endothelial cells. Contact lens material and duration of CL wear (in years) are factors that affect the alterations. Optometrists are recommended to regularly evaluate the morphology of corneal endothelial cells in CL wearers and provide necessary intervention when required.

Purpose: To describe a simple manual surgical technique for splitting a single-donor eye for performing both deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) and Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) without using a microkeratome. Methods: Twenty-three eyes with anterior stromal pathology and 23 eyes with irreversible endothelial dysfunction were evaluated for keratoplasty at a tertiary eye care referral center. Twenty-three healthy donor corneas were split into two parts. The Descemet’s membrane was stripped and used for DMEK. The stripped stroma was used for DALK. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of both DALK and DMEK, endothelial cell density, and endothelial cell loss in DMEK were noted at 1-year follow-up, along with any intraoperative or postoperative complications and failures. Results: In the DALK group, mean BCVA improved from 1.264 ± 0.25 log Mar preoperatively to 0.355 ± 0.27 log Mar at 12 months follow-up. There were no complications and failures. In the DMEK group, mean BCVA improved from 1.537 ± 0.61 log Mar preoperatively to 0.592 ± 0.67 log Mar and the mean donor ECD was 3071.66 (range, 2783–3487) cells/mm2 preoperatively, which was reduced to 1989.33 (range, 1546–2543) cells/mm2 at 12 months follow-up indicating a mean endothelial cell loss of 35%. The failure rate was 21.7%. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that with a single donor corneal tissue, both DALK and DMEK can be performed successfully without any complications. Our technique will help corneal surgeons in all developing countries to cost effectively perform more lamellar surgeries and help in reducing the magnitude of corneal blindness without the need for expensive microkeratomes.

Aim The aim of this study was to assess the corneal endothelial cell loss after toric implantable collamer lens (TICL) implantation for correction of myopia and astigmatism after penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). Setting and design This is a prospective noncomparative nonrandomized clinical study that was carried out at Alex Eye Center, Alexandria, Egypt. Patients and methods The study was conducted on 12 eyes of eight patients who underwent PKP for keratoconus. After a full preoperative assessment, VISIAN TICL was implanted after a minimum of 1 year with stable refraction. Cases were followed up for 1 year postoperatively for refraction, visual acuity, endothelial cell density (ECD), adverse events, and postoperative complications. Results The refractive and visual outcome in this study proved to be satisfactory regarding efficacy, predictability, and stability. The ECD loss was reduced from a preoperative mean of 2238.6±113.3 cells/mm2 (range=2033–2367 cells/mm2) to a postoperative mean of 2124.8±107.6 cells/mm2 (range=1930–224 cells/mm2) at 6 months postoperatively, with a percentage of loss of −5.09%, and to a mean of 2023.4±109.2 cells/mm2 (range=1833–2192 cells/mm2) at 1 year postoperatively, with a percentage of loss of −9.61%. Both were statistically significant (P=0.042 and 0.0016, respectively). Conclusion TICLs were effective for correction of high ametropia after PKP, with high efficacy, predictability, stability, and safety. However, ECD loss was reported postoperatively up to 1 year. Further studies are required to assert upon these results.

Background: Phacoemulsification surgery is the most frequent cataract surgery performed in developed countries because of its effectiveness and safety. However, some degree of endothelial loss is inevitable in any type of cataract surgery, including phacoemulsification. Anterior chamber depth (ACD) could be considered as one of important anatomical parameters for preserving endothelial loss from the mechanical and thermal damage that can occur during the procedure. Purpose: To evaluate the effects of ACD on endothelial cell density, hexagonality, coefficient variation (CV) and central corneal thickness (CCT) at one and four weeks after phacoemulsification using transversal ultrasound. Method: This was a prospective study conducted at Cicendo National Eye Hospital Indonesia from April to August 2018, where we performed phacoemulsification in 148 patients with ACD < 3 mm group, ACD ≥ 3 mm group. Specular microscopy examination was performed prior to phacoemulsification and repeated at one and four weeks after surgery. The changes in endothelial density, percentage of hexagonality, CV and CCT between two groups were evaluated and compared. Result: Mean (SD) endothelial density in ACD < 3 mm group and ACD ≥ 3 mm group at 1-week evaluation was 1761.9 (503.3) and 1966.1 (530.6) cells/mm2 respectively, with p value 0.030. At 4-week evaluation, endothelial cell density in ACD < 3 mm group and ACD ≥ 3 mm group was 1537.8 (504.9) and 1798.7 (554.0) cells/mm2 respectively, with p value 0.010. There was no statistical difference regarding hexagonality, CV and CCT between both groups at 1-week and 4-week evaluation. Endothelial density changes percentage also higher in ACD < 3 mm group at 1-week and 4-week evaluation. Conclusion: Endothelial cell density in ACD < 3 mm group was significantly lower compared to ACD ≥ 3 mm group at 1-week and 4-week evaluation after phacoemulsification.

Purpose. To evaluate the results of treatment of patients with pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (PBK) by the method of posterior lamellar femto-keratoplasty with ultrathin graft (FS-DSEK) harvested using two different lasers. Material and methods. The results of surgical treatment of 82 patients (82 eyes) underwent posterior lamellar femto-keratoplasty for PBK were analyzed. In the 1st group included 43 patients (43 eyes) with PBK underwent FS-DSEK using FS laser Femto-Visum (Optosystems, Russia). In the 2nd group included 39 patients (39 eyes) with PBK underwent FS-DSEK using LDV Z8 (Ziemer, Switzerland). Observation period was 1 year. Before and after surgery following indicators were evaluated: uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best spectacle corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), postoperative astigmatism, central corneal thickness (CCT), graft thickness, center-periphery (C:P) ratio, endothelial cell density (ECD), endothelial cell (EC) loss, optical density. Results. Transparent engraftment at 1-year observation period was observed in 88% of cases. In the 1st group UCVA=0.22±0.11, BSCVA=0.32±0.12, in the 2nd group UCVA=0.18±0.08, BSCVA=0.29±0.1 (p>0.05). The maximum BSCVA in both groups was 0.6. Postoperative astigmatism was comparative in 2nd groups – 1.43±1.1 and 1.38±1.0 D, respectively (p>0.05). In the 1st group, CCT=549±31, graft thickness in the central zone – 83±12, C:P ratio – 0.92±0.05; in the 2nd group CCT=546±28, graft thickness – 80±10, C:P ratio – 0.94±0.06 (p>0.05). In the 1st group ECD – 1326±282, EC loss – 55±6%; ECD in the 2nd – 850±230, EC loss – 70±7% (p

PURPOSE To compare the postoperative outcomes between femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) and conventional phacoemulsification in eyes with shallow anterior chamber depth (ACD). SETTING Eye Clinic, NEUROFARBA Department, University of Florence, Italy. DESIGN Prospective case series. METHODS Forty eyes of 40 patients with senile cataract and true ACD less than 2.00 mm underwent FLACS (femto group, n = 20) or manual phacoemulsification (phacoemulsification group, n = 20). Preoperatively and 1 week and 1 month and 6 months postoperatively, central corneal thickness (CCT) and endothelial cell density were evaluated; basal epithelial cell (BEC) and Langerhans dendritic cell (LDC) densities and keratocyte activation were assessed using in vivo corneal confocal microscopy. Intraoperative parameters such as cumulative dissipated energy (CDE) and ultrasound (US) power were recorded. RESULTS Endothelial cell loss (ECL) was significantly lower in the femto group at all timepoints (P ≤ .001). In the phacoemulsification group, the CCT was significantly higher 1 week (P < .001) and 1 month (P < .001) postoperatively than preoperatively; conversely, in the femto group, it was higher only after 1 week (P < .001). BECs and LDCs significantly increased at 1 postoperative week (P < .001), returning to preoperative values after 1 month in both groups. Keratocyte activation remained significantly higher at 1 postoperative month only in the phacoemulsification group (P = .005). CDE and US power were lower in the femto group (P = .017 and P = .001, respectively); they were correlated with ECL (r = 0.662, P = .000; r = 0.389, P = .013). CONCLUSIONS In eyes with shallow ACD, FLACS was a safe and an effective technique, significantly reducing the postoperative ECL and corneal inflammation compared with conventional phacoemulsification.

PURPOSE To describe a surgical technique of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) using an endothelium-in pull-through technique with novel infusion forceps and report 6-month clinical outcomes. METHODS This is a retrospective case series of 33 cases with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy who underwent either DMEK alone (n = 5), DMEK combined with phacoemulsification (n = 27), or DMEK combined with intraocular lens exchange (n = 1) performed by surgeons at the beginning of the DMEK learning curve. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), manifest refraction, central corneal thickness, endothelial cell density, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and need for additional surgeries including rebubbling were evaluated through 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS Preoperative BCVA was 0.37 ± 0.34 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution and improved to 0.09 ± 0.10 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution at 6 months (P < 0.001). Eighty-two percent of eyes obtained a BCVA of 20/25 or better. Central corneal thickness decreased significantly at 6 months (P < 0.001). Endothelial cell loss was 29.1% at 6 months (available for 20 of 33 eyes). All surgeries were uneventful. Six eyes required rebubbling for graft detachments. There were no primary or secondary graft failures at 6 months. CONCLUSIONS DMEK with infusion microforceps is efficacious and safe in eyes with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy and could offer a more controlled surgery, making it suitable for both novice and experienced DMEK surgeons.

To evaluate factors affecting corneal endothelial cell density (ECD) under enucleation and preservation time studies at Eye Bank of the Federal District of Brazil. We conducted a case–control study collecting data from 1128 corneas where death-to-enucleation time and enucleation-to-preservation time were within 24 h. Low cell count were those corneas with an ECD less than 2000 cells/mm2 and high cell count was defined as those with ECD greater than 2000 cells/mm2. We calculated the independent risk factors related to: cause of death, donor age, death-to-enucleation time, enucleation-to-preservation time and primary graft failure. Correlation analysis was used to assess which parameters influence ECD: death-to-enucleation time, enucleation-to-preservation time, average cell area (AVE), coefficient of variation and percentage of hexagonal cells. Of the total number of corneas, 1004 had ECD data and were selected for the study. 87.4% (n = 877) had high cell counts with 2699 ± 412 cells/mm2. The mean donor age was 38.8 ± 16 years. The most common causes of death were external causes (48.6%, n = 488). Longer times from death-to-enucleation, up to 24 h were not associated with a decrease in ECD (OR 0.58; P = 0.44) or risk of graft survival (P = 0.74). Enucleation-to-preservation intervals greater than 12 h showed increased risk of graft survival (P = 0.04). AVE was the main parameter for ECD (R2 = 0.96, P

Purpose of review The manuscript presents a review of published studies regarding the outcomes, causes, and complications of phakic intraocular lens (pIOLs) bilensectomy.All pIOLs will be explanted at some point, therefore is important to know the visual and refractive outcomes following bilensectomy. Recent findings There are few publications about the outcomes following pIOL bilensectomy; in all of them, cataract remains the main cause of bilensectomy. Other causes are endothelial cell density loss and pupil ovalization. The mean time between pIOL implantation and bilensectomy is longer in eyes implanted with an anterior chamber pIOL than in eyes implanted with a posterior chamber pIOL. There is a significant improvement in uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity after bilensectomy. Some sight-threatening complications like retinal detachment and low endothelial cell density (ECD) after surgery have been reported. Current publications suggest that endothelial cell density loss is more frequent in eyes that underwent bilensectomy for an anterior chamber pIOL. Summary Good visual and refractive outcomes are achieved after bilensectomy, regular endothelial cell density measurements should be performed in all patients implanted with an anterior chamber pIOL to perform a safe bilensectomy.

BACKGROUND To investigate corneal endothelial cell density in eyes with primary pterygium. METHODS A retrospective study was conducted to compare endothelial cell density between 1,565 patients with primary pterygium and 3,448 patients without pterygium. Then a prospective study was designed to confirm the findings of the retrospective study in 95 patients with unilateral primary pterygium. RESULTS In the retrospective study, the mean endothelial cell density in eyes with primary pterygium was significantly lower (2,454 ± 303 cells/mm2 ) than those in eyes without pterygium (2,525 ± 312 cells/mm2 , p

Purpose To describe the changes in endothelial cell density (ECD), the coefficient of variation (CV), and the percent of hexagonal cells (%HEX) after 3 months of therapy with netarsudil (Rhopressa; Aerie Pharmaceuticals Inc, Durham, NC) 0.02% dosed once daily (QD) or twice daily (BID) and to compare these changes with those seen with timolol 0.5% BID in eyes with ocular hypertension (OHTN) or open-angle glaucoma (OAG). Design Post hoc analysis of data from a phase 3 evaluation of the intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering efficacy and safety of netarsudil 0.02% versus timolol 0.5%. Participants A subset of study subjects underwent corneal endothelial cell imaging by specular microscopy at baseline and after 3 months of therapy. Methods Images were evaluated in a masked fashion at an independent reading center. The ECD, CV, and %HEX were determined using a standardized protocol for image analysis. Main Outcome Measures Changes in ECD, CV, and %HEX from baseline to 3 months were compared between treatment groups using 2-sample t tests. Results Data from 386 subjects from whom analyzable specular microscopy images were obtained at both baseline and month 3 were included in this analysis. Mean ECD, CV, and %HEX values were comparable between groups at baseline. There were no statistically significant between-group differences in changes from baseline to month 3 in ECD, CV, or %HEX between either of the netarsudil groups and the timolol group. Within groups, CV declined in a statistically significant fashion from baseline to month 3 in all 3 groups by 1.4% to 2.1% (P Conclusions Netarsudil 0.02% showed no clinically significant effects on ECD, CV, or %HEX when dosed QD or BID for 3 months in eyes with OHTN or OAG.

PURPOSE To present a case series of a modified three-quarter Descemet's membrane endothelial keratoplasty (3/4-DMEK) technique to treat pseudophakic bullous keratopathy in the presence of a glaucoma drainage device (GDD) tube in the anterior chamber by reducing the risk of donor endothelial damage due to absence of donor endothelial cells overlying the GGD tube area. METHODS In this prospective case series, four eyes of three patients with stable glaucoma underwent 3/4-DMEK surgery for pseudophakic bullous keratopathy after GDD insertion. The patients were followed up to 24 ± 2.5 months postoperatively. RESULTS No intraoperative or postoperative complications were noted. The average central endothelial cell density (ECD) was 1093 ± 74 cells/mm2 at 12 months postoperatively, corresponding to an ECD decrease of 58 (±6)% as compared to preoperative values. Average best-corrected visual acuity increased from finger counting before surgery to 20/60 (logMar 0.5) at 12 months after 3/4-DMEK and remained stable up to 24 months postoperatively. All corneas remained clear at the last available follow-up. CONCLUSION This case series demonstrates the technical feasibility of 3/4-DMEK in eyes with pseudophakic bullous keratopathy in the presence of a GDD tube. The absence of a donor DM and donor cells above the silicone tube excludes direct tube contact with the graft. Longer term studies are needed to show the effect of this modified graft pattern and dimensions on transplant survival.

To assess the effectiveness, safety and predictability of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) in eyes with shallow anterior chamber (AC). This is a prospective consecutive clinical study. All eyes presented an anterior chamber depth (ACD) ≤ 2.1 mm and were submitted to FLACS with monofocal intraocular lens (mIOL) or trifocal intraocular lens (tIOL) implantation. Uncorrected distance visual acuity (VA) and corrected distance VA values were used to assess efficacy and safety of the surgery. Refraction, intraocular pressure (IOP), endothelial cell density (ECD) and ACD were evaluated before and 6 months post-surgery. Phacoemulsification was carried out successfully in all eyes, without intra- or postoperative complications. Efficacy and safety indexes were 0.96 and 1.26 for the mIOL group, and 0.87 and 1.01 for the tIOL group, respectively. The mean postoperative spherical equivalent was − 0.06 ± 0.28D and − 0.14 ± 0.38D for the mIOL and tIOL groups, respectively. The ECD varied from 2470 ± 483 to 2009 ± 538 cells/mm2 (p

Introduction An intracameral mydriatic and anaesthetic combination has been approved for injection into the anterior chamber in order to provide rapid and stable mydriasis and sustained intraocular anaesthesia during cataract surgery. Methods In this prospective study, conducted at the Eye Clinic, University of Florence, Italy, we compared phacoemulsification using the standard mydriatic-anaesthetic eye-drop protocol with that using the standard protocol in terms of corneal changes, ocular surface parameters and visual quality. Sixty patients (60 eyes) were included in the study, with 30 eyes receiving Mydrane®, a novel injectable intracameral solution, during phacoemulsification (Mydrane protocol, MP) and 30 eyes receiving the standard mydriatic-anaesthetic eye drops (standard protocol, SP). The following parameters were assessed using in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM): central corneal thickness (CCT); flare and cells in the aqueous humor (Flare); keratocyte activation (KA), Langerhans’ cell density (LCD), nerve fibre density (NFD) and endothelial cell density (ECD). The Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score, tear breakup time (TBUT) and Schirmer’s test I (STI) were also evaluated. The Optical Scattering Index (OSI) and its standard deviation (OSI-SD) were assessed using the Optical Quality Analysing System (Visiometrics SL, Terrassa, Spain). Results In the MP group, CCT, Flare, KA and LCD values returned to baseline values within 15 postoperative days. The mean ECD and NFD decreased significantly in both groups from baseline at all follow-up assessments, with no statistically significant difference between groups. TBUT returned to the preoperative level at postoperative day 15 in the MP group. OSDI scores and STI were significantly worse in both groups at all follow-up assessments compared to baseline. At postoperative day 15 OSI and OSI-SD values were significantly better in the MP group than in the SP group. Conclusions The use of Mydrane during cataract surgery showed a good safety profile and few toxic side effects, ensuring better optical quality and tear film stability.

Background/AimsThe current study evaluates the efficacy and safety of the stand-alone implantation of the MINIject (iSTAR Medical, Wavre, Belgium) supraciliary, microinvasive glaucoma drainage device in patients with medically uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma.MethodsThis prospective, multicentre, first-in-human, single-arm interventional study evaluated stand-alone, ab interno implantation in 25 patients of a 5 mm long uveoscleral device made of STAR biocompatible material, which is a soft, microporous, flexible silicone. The primary outcome was the reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) at 6 months compared with baseline, and follow-up continued until 2 years for 21 patients. Secondary outcomes included success defined as diurnal IOP of ≤21 mmHg and >5 mmHg with an IOP reduction of 20% without (complete) or with/without (qualified) glaucoma medication.ResultsMean baseline IOP was 23.2±2.9 mmHg on 2.0±1.1 glaucoma medication ingredients and decreased to 13.8±3.5 mmHg (−40.7% reduction) on 1.0±1.3 medications 2 years after implantation. Complete success was achieved in 47.6% of patients (10/21) and qualified success in 100% of patients (21/21) at the 2-year follow-up. All patients achieved a 20% IOP reduction with 48% of patients medication-free. No serious ocular adverse events or additional glaucoma surgery were reported. Mean central endothelial cell density (ECD) mildly decreased from 2411 cells/mm2 (n=26) to 2341 cells/mm2 (n=21) at 24 months, which represents a 5% decrease for matched eyes. No patient had a ≥30% decrease in central ECD.ConclusionThis first-in-human study on the stand-alone implantation of the MINIject supraciliary drainage system shows promising IOP-lowering results and medication reduction over 24 months with few adverse events.Trial registration numberNCT03193736.

To describe the clinical outcomes of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty combined with phacoemulsification/posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation (triple procedure) for treatment of corneal decompensation induced by a phakic anterior chamber intraocular lens (AC IOL) implantation. Ten patients (10 eyes) with corneal decompensation due to phakic AC IOL implantation that had undergone the triple procedure were included in this study. Among the 10 eyes, 5 eyes underwent explantation of AC IOL prior to the transplantation, and then underwent the triple procedure. The remaining 5 eyes with a phakic AC IOL in situ underwent the triple procedure with concurrent explantation of AC IOL. Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), subjective refraction, endothelial cell density (ECD), and complications were documented. The triple procedure was performed across all eyes without any adverse events. The average CDVA improved from 1.32 ± 0.24 preoperatively to 0.15 ± 0.05 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), which represents an improvement in Snellen equivalent from 20/400 (0.05) preoperatively to 20/28 (0.71) at 12 months after surgery. At 12 months, all eyes reached a CDVA of 20/32 (0.63) or better, and 50% of eyes reached a CDVA of 20/25 (0.8) or better. The mean donor ECD±SD was 2868.7 ± 67.9 cells/mm2, which decreased to 1724.1 ± 84.6 cells/mm2 at 12 months, representing 39.9% of endothelial cell loss. Patients did not experience any severe adverse events. The triple procedure is a safe and effective option for corneal decompensation induced by a phakic AC IOL implantation, helping achieve a satisfactory visual rehabilitation with few complications.

Purpose: To evaluate the suitability of corneas from septic donors for transplantation by analyzing the discard rate in the eye bank and the clinical outcome of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) using organ-cultured corneal grafts from septic versus nonseptic donors. Methods: This retrospective study included 1554 corneas of which 456 corneas (29%) were from septic and 1072 corneas (69%) from nonseptic donors [for 26 corneas (2%) sepsis status was unknown]. The clinical outcome at 6 months after DMEK was evaluated for 82 grafts (26 from septic and 56 from nonseptic donors). Outcome measures were endothelial cell density, central corneal thickness, and postoperative complications. Results: Primary discard rates were higher for corneas from septic than from nonseptic donors (32.9% vs. 24.5%, P = 0.001). The main discard reason was poor endothelial cell quality for both septic (13.8%) and nonseptic (11.8%) donor corneas. Eye bank contamination rates for septic and nonseptic donor corneas were 1.1% and 1.7%, respectively (P = 0.102). After DMEK, donor endothelial cell density at 6m postoperatively was comparable between grafts from septic and nonseptic donors (1410 +/- 422 cells/mm(2) vs. 1590 +/- 519 cells/mm(2), P = 0.140). No differences in 6m central corneal thickness and in the rebubbling rate were observed between the 2 groups (P = 0.780 and P = 0.396, respectively). None of the cases had graft rejection nor endophthalmitis in both groups. Conclusions: Provided strict adherence to donor screening and evaluation protocols, the use of organ-cultured corneas from septic donors for DMEK does not seem to increase the risk for recipients and allows for expansion of the donor pool for corneal tissue.

Background/aimsWe developed a novel technology consisting of violet light (VL)-emitting glasses and defined the combination of VL irradiation and riboflavin treatment as KeraVio. Our goal was to evaluate the clinical results of KeraVio in patients with progressive corneal ectasia.MethodsEyes were exposed to VL (375 nm, irradiance 310 μW/cm2)-emitting glasses for 3 hours daily for 6 months, and a riboflavin solution was administered onto the corneal epithelium six times during each 3-hour VL irradiation. The primary end point was a change in the maximum keratometry (Kmax) value over 6 months compared with that over the 1 year before baseline.ResultsThe efficacy of KeraVio was evaluated in 20 eyes with severe progression, and its safety was evaluated in all 40 eyes. The mean changes in Kmax over the 1 year before baseline and during the 6-month observation period were 6.03±3.41 dioptres (D) and −0.81±3.34 D, respectively (p=0.002). At 6 months, the Kmax value decreased by more than 2 D in 4 eyes (20%), remained within 2 D in 13 eyes (65%), and increased by 2 D or more in 3 eyes (15%). The corneal stromal demarcation line was identified in 16 eyes (80%), and its depth was 206.3±54.9 μm at 1 month. No significant decrease in endothelial cell density, lenticular opacity or transient corneal haze was noted.ConclusionBased on our 6-month results, daily treatment of progressive corneal ectasia with KeraVio can halt disease progression without any safety concerns.Clinical trial registration numberjRCTs032180217.