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To compare subjective and objective outcomes of 4 different Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) peeling techniques performed by novice surgeons at different stages in their surgical career.An ex vivo prospective study.In the first round, 2 DMEK peeling techniques were pitched against each other: the peripheral scoring and Sinskey dissection technique with the peripheral scoring and microhoe dissection and the peripheral blunt microhoe dissection against the scleral spurectomy and microhoe dissection. Three surgeons with different operative experience performed the peeling. Outcome measures included graft peeling time, surgeon's peeling difficulty grading (on a scale of 1-10, 1 being the easiest and 10 the hardest), number of radial and circumferential tears before and after trephination, and tissue loss. The 2 techniques that performed the best from the first round proceeded to the final round to identify the best overall technique.In total, 90 tissues (45 pairs) were peeled by 3 surgeons. Following the first-round results, the peripheral scoring and Sinskey dissection and peripheral blunt microhoe dissection proceeded to the final round. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of peeling times, subjective feeling of difficulty, post-trephination tears, and peeling success rates (P0.05 for all). However, the peripheral scoring and Sinskey dissection technique had significantly fewer pretrephination radial tears (1.3 ± 1.3 vs 6.1 ± 5.2, P = 0.007) and circumferential tears (0.6 ± 0.9 vs 1.8 ± 2.1, P = 0.02).This study demonstrates that the learning curve can be overcome quickly with appropriate DMEK peeling techniques. The peripheral scoring and Sinskey dissection peeling technique allows efficient peeling with fewer related tears.

Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) form a spectrum of vesiculobullous disorders affecting skin and mucous membranes. Although rare, they are associated with a high mortality rate of up to 35% in adults and up to 17% in children.1 2 Ocular involvement is common and is present acutely in 43–81% of hospitalised patients.3 4 This ranges from conjunctival injection and membrane formation to epithelial sloughing of eyelid, conjunctiva and cornea. Chronic ocular complications occur in 20–79% of patients.1 Fusion between bulbar conjunctiva and fornices leads to symblepharon, while tarsal conjunctival scarring is associated with lid keratinisation and cicatricial lid changes including entropion, trichiasis and distichiasis.5 All of these changes contribute to corneal complications including limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) and eventual ocular surface failure with poor visual prognosis.6 Prompt treatment during the acute inflammatory stage of SJS/TEN is important in preventing chronic sequelae.1 Use of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) to suppress inflammation and promote healing during the acute phase was first reported by John et al in 2002.7 Amniotic membrane contains anti-inflammatory cytokines and suppresses innate immunity, thus having anti-inflammatory as well as anti-scarring effects.8 Its effectiveness has also been demonstrated in other ocular surface disorders such as chemical burns, persistent epithelial defect and ocular cicatricial pemphigoid.9–12 Since then, AMT has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the acute stage of SJS/TEN in several case series.8 13–15 In a large retrospective study, Hsu et al have showed the benefit of early AMT in patients with moderate and severe ocular involvement from SJS/TEN compared with medical management alone.16 Recently, Shanbhag et al reported that patients who received AMT in the acute period had significantly reduced vision-threatening complications; however, complications still occurred in this group mostly …

PURPOSE To compare accelerated corneal crosslinking (CXL) alone, CXL with simultaneous intrastromal corneal ring segments (CXL-ICRS), and CXL with simultaneous topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy (CXL-TG-PRK) in progressive keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD), or laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK)-induced ectasia. SETTING The Kensington Eye Institute and Bochner Eye Institute, Toronto, Canada. DESIGN Prospective nonrandomized interventional study. METHODS Visual and topographical outcomes using a comparative analysis adjusting for preoperative maximum keratometry (Kmax) were evaluated 1 year postoperatively. RESULTS Four hundred fifty-two eyes from 375 patients with progressive keratoconus, PMD, or LASIK-induced ectasia that underwent accelerated (9 mW/cm, 10 minutes) CXL alone (n = 204), CXL-ICRS (n = 126), or CXL-TG-PRK (n = 122) were included. Change in logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution uncorrected distance visual acuity was significant with CXL-ICRS (-0.31; 95% CI, -0.38 to -0.24) and CXL-TG-PRK (-0.16; 95% CI, -0.24 to -0.09), but not with CXL alone. No significant differences in change were found between the 3 groups. Change in corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) was significant in all 3 groups: -0.12 (95% CI, -0.15 to -0.10) with CXL alone, -0.23 (95% CI, -0.27 to -0.20) with CXL-ICRS, and -0.17 (95% CI, -0.21 to -0.13) with CXL-TG-PRK. Improvement in CDVA was greater with CXL-ICRS than with CXL alone (-0.08 ± 0.02; P < .0001) and CXL-TG-PRK (-0.05 ± 0.02; P = .005). Change in Kmax was significant with CXL-ICRS [-3.21 diopters (D); 95% CI, -3.98 to -2.45] and CXL-TG-PRK (-3.69 D; 95% CI, -4.49 to -2.90), but not with CXL alone (-0.05 D; 95% CI, -0.66 to 0.55). CONCLUSIONS CXL alone might be best for keratoconic patients who meet the inclusion criteria. CXL-ICRS might be more effective for eyes with more irregular astigmatism and worse CDVA and CXL-TG-PRK for eyes requiring improvements in irregular astigmatism but still have good CDVA.

Purpose: To report a series of cases demonstrating the resolution of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) with adjunctive use of oral miltefosine.Methods: Retrospective case series.Results: The first case was a 27-year-old female who presented with severe pain and photophobia. The diagnosis of AK was made with confocal microscopy, which revealed a significant burden of stromal cysts. After approximately 2 weeks of adjunctive oral miltefosine therapy, there was a severe inflammatory response within the cornea followed by quick resolution of the AK. The second case was a 31-year-old male in whom the diagnosis of AK was confirmed by culture and polymerase chain reaction. Adjunctive oral miltefosine was started 3 months after presentation, leading to a quick resolution.Conclusions: Oral miltefosine may have cysticidal properties and should be considered as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of AK, particularly in cases with a significant burden of cysts or in cases recalcitrant to other treatments.

When intraorbital wooden foreign bodies are missed, the consequences can be devastating. While the gold standard diagnostic imaging is computed tomography (CT), it has low sensitivity. We present a 61-year-old man with a bamboo injury to his right eye. He underwent two CT scans that failed to raise the possibility of intraorbital foreign bodies. Upon additional review, a rectangular-shaped pocket of air was identified in the orbit which was most consistent with wooden foreign bodies based on the clinical history. A combined mid-lid approach followed by a transconjunctival and transcaruncular extension were employed to remove several wooden splinters. Postoperatively, due to recurrent orbital compartment syndrome, he required a second decompression with an inferior rim osteotomy. He had good recovery at 3 months follow-up. Overall, intraorbital wooden foreign bodies are challenging to diagnose due to imaging limitations. Providing a clear history and suspected diagnosis to radiology is critical for diagnosis.

PURPOSE To quantify practice patterns and assess attitudes and barriers to performing Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) in Canada. METHODS An anonymous online survey was distributed to all corneal surgeons included in the Canadian Ophthalmological Society's database. RESULTS Of 70 listed surgeons, 41 responses were collected (58.6% response rate). Most respondents were practicing in university hospitals (43.9%) or private practice (43.9%) and were involved in residency teaching (77.5%). Most respondents performed DMEK surgery (78%), and most surgeons prepared their own DMEK grafts (62%). Surgeons who were in practice for more than 25 years were less likely to perform DMEK (75% vs. 13%, P = 0.009) and performed fewer corneal transplantation in the previous year (mean 28 vs. 44, P = 0.022). Those who were not performing DMEK reported access to preprepared tissue (77.8%), access to wet laboratory courses (50%), and assistance or mentorship (50%) as common facilitators to start performing DMEK surgery. CONCLUSIONS DMEK is the preferred surgery for endothelial disease among Canadian corneal surgeons. Eye banks play a key role in increased adoption by ensuring an adequate supply of tissue and prestripping tissue for surgeons new to DMEK to be confident in performing it. Ensuring adequate supply of donor tissue and supplementary surgeon training can ensure that DMEK surgery is widely available in Canada.

Orbital compartment syndrome (OCS) is a rare but devastating complication of over-resuscitation in burn patients that may lead to permanent visual loss. The purpose of this study was to 1) present a series of burn patients with OCS and 2) survey practice patterns of monitoring intra-ocular pressure (IOP) during burn resuscitation. Cases of OCS at two American Burn Association (ABA)–verified burn centers were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were included if they 1) required lateral canthotomy/cantholysis for elevated IOPs or 2) developed blindness on admission unrelated to any other ocular pathology. Data were collected on demographics, burn characteristics, fluid administration, ophthalmologic findings, and complications. An eight-item electronic survey was distributed by email through the ABA to all physician members. Twelve patients with OCS were identified, with a mean age of 47.8 ± 12.4 years and TBSA of 63.7 ± 18.6%. Mean fluid resuscitation at 24 hours was 4.9 ± 1.6 ml/kg/%TBSA or 0.29 ± 0.06 liter/kg. Eight patients underwent canthotomy/cantholysis for OCS, whereas four were later found to have visual loss. A total of 83 (14%) ABA physicians responded to the survey. IOP was routinely measured by 23% of respondents during acute burn resuscitation. OCS appears to have developed despite a relatively low 24-hour ml/kg/% burn resuscitation volume, but with a relatively higher cumulative (liter/kg) fluid volume. Their survey found that monitoring of IOP during burn resuscitation is not routinely performed by the majority of providers. Taken together, the present study suggests clinical guidelines to recognize this complication of over-resuscitation.

Few studies have reported the physical complications among Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) survivors. The aim of this study was to comprehensively characterize the physical complications among SJS/TEN survivors and to learn about patients’ perspectives of surviving SJS/TEN. SJS/TEN survivors older than 18 years of age were assessed by different methods: a medical interview; a questionnaire assessing patients’ perspectives; thorough skin, oral mucous membrane, and ophthalmic examinations; and a retrospective assessment of medical records. Our cohort consisted of 17 patients with a mean time of 51.6 ± 74.7 months (median 9, range 1–228) following SJS/TEN. The most common physical complications identified in the medical examination were post-inflammatory skin changes (77%), cutaneous scars (46%), dry eyes (44%), symblepharon, and chronic ocular surface inflammation (33% each). Novel physical sequelae included chronic fatigue (76%) and pruritus (53%). We also found a novel association between the number of mucous membranes affected in the acute phase of SJS/TEN and hair loss during the 6 months following hospital discharge; hair loss was reported in 88% of the group of patients who had three or more mucous membranes affected versus 29% of patients who had less than three mucous membranes involved (p = 0.0406). Following hospital discharge due to SJS/TEN, 59% of patients were followed by a dermatologist, although 88% had dermatological complications; 6% were followed by an ophthalmologist, even though 67% had ophthalmological complications; and 6% of female survivors were followed by a gynecologist, even though 27% had gynecological complications. Survivors of SJS/TEN suffer from severe physical complications impacting their health and lives that are mostly under recognized and not sufficiently treated by medical professionals.

Purpose To use patient-level microsimulation models to evaluate the comparative cost-effectiveness of early corneal cross-linking (CXL) and conventional management with penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) when indicated in managing keratoconus in Canada. Design Cost-utility analysis using individual-based, state–transition microsimulation models. Participants Simulated cohorts of 100 000 individuals with keratoconus who entered each treatment arm at 25 years of age. Fellow eyes were modeled separately. Simulated individuals lived up to a maximum of 110 years. Methods We developed 2 state–transition microsimulation models to reflect the natural history of keratoconus progression and the impact of conventional management with PKP versus CXL. We collected data from the published literature to inform model parameters. We used realistic parameters that maximized the potential costs and complications of CXL, while minimizing those associated with PKP. In each treatment arm, we allowed simulated individuals to move through health states in monthly cycles from diagnosis until death. Main Outcome Measures For each treatment strategy, we calculated the total cost and number of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained. Costs were measured in Canadian dollars. Costs and QALYs were discounted at 5%, converting future costs and QALYs into present values. We used an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER = difference in lifetime costs/difference in lifetime health outcomes) to compare the cost-effectiveness of CXL versus conventional management with PKP. Results Lifetime costs and QALYs for CXL were estimated to be Can$5530 (Can$4512, discounted) and 50.12 QALYs (16.42 QALYs, discounted). Lifetime costs and QALYs for conventional management with PKP were Can$2675 (Can$1508, discounted) and 48.93 QALYs (16.09 QALYs, discounted). The discounted ICER comparing CXL to conventional management was Can$9090/QALY gained. Sensitivity analyses revealed that in general, parameter variations did not influence the cost-effectiveness of CXL. Conclusions CXL is cost-effective compared with conventional management with PKP in the treatment of keratoconus. Our ICER of Can$9090/QALY falls well below the range of Can$20 000 to Can$100 000/QALY and below US$50 000/QALY, thresholds generally used to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of health interventions in Canada and the United States. This study provides strong economic evidence for the cost-effectiveness of early CXL in keratoconus.

We examined the efficacy and preoperative characteristics that affect outcomes of accelerated (9 mW/cmProspective single-center observational cohort study.We enrolled 612 eyes of 391 subjects with progressive keratoconus (n = 589), pellucid marginal degeneration (n = 11), and laser in situ keratomileusis-induced ectasia (n = 12). We evaluated best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), topography, refraction, endothelial cell density, corneal thickness, haze, intraocular pressure, and visual function before and 12 months after the CXL procedure. We tabulated the proportion of those with progression of maximum keratometry (Kmax). We included participant's race, age, sex, and the presence of preoperative apical scarring and environmental allergies in a multivariable linear regression model to determine the effect of these characteristics on outcomes.At 1 year there was no significant change in mean Kmax (n = 569). Progression of Kmax was higher in subgroups with a baseline Kmax58 diopters (n = 191) and those 14-18 years of age (n = 53). Preoperative BSCVA, Kmax, refraction, corneal cylinder, coma, central corneal thickness, and vision function were statistically and clinically significant predictors of outcomes (P .001). Preoperative apical scarring led to worsening haze (P = .0001), more astigmatism (P = .002), more central corneal thinning (P = .002), and was protective to the endothelium (P = .008). Race, age, and sex affected some outcomes.Mean Kmax was stable at 1 year after accelerated CXL. Younger patients and those with a higher preoperative Kmax need to be monitored closely for progression. Preoperative BSCVA, topography, refraction, CCT, and apical scarring were significant predictors of outcomes.

Purpose To report a case of fungal keratitis caused by Metarhizium anisopliae complex Methods Case report Results Our patient presented with a central corneal infiltrate. Fungal culture yielded a Metarhizium species. She was started on antifungal agents with no significant improvement. A therapeutic corneal transplant was performed after perforation. At two years follow up, she was free of infection. Conclusion Metarhizium anisopliae is a very rare cause of keratitis. Although previous reported cases showed clinical improvement with antifungal agents, this case required surgical treatment to control the infection.

Glaucoma is a well-known complication after corneal transplantation surgery. Traditional corneal transplantation surgery, specifically penetrating keratoplasty, has been slowly replaced by the advent of new corneal transplantation procedures: primarily lamellar keratoplasties. There has also been an emergence of keratoprosthesis implants for eyes that are high risk of failure with penetrating keratoplasty. Consequently, there are different rates of glaucoma, pathogenesis, and potential treatment in the form of medical, laser, or surgical therapy.

To use patient-level microsimulation models to evaluate the comparative cost-effectiveness of early corneal cross-linking (CXL) and conventional management with penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) when indicated in managing keratoconus in Canada.Cost-utility analysis using individual-based, state-transition microsimulation models.Simulated cohorts of 100 000 individuals with keratoconus who entered each treatment arm at 25 years of age. Fellow eyes were modeled separately. Simulated individuals lived up to a maximum of 110 years.We developed 2 state-transition microsimulation models to reflect the natural history of keratoconus progression and the impact of conventional management with PKP versus CXL. We collected data from the published literature to inform model parameters. We used realistic parameters that maximized the potential costs and complications of CXL, while minimizing those associated with PKP. In each treatment arm, we allowed simulated individuals to move through health states in monthly cycles from diagnosis until death.For each treatment strategy, we calculated the total cost and number of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained. Costs were measured in Canadian dollars. Costs and QALYs were discounted at 5%, converting future costs and QALYs into present values. We used an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER = difference in lifetime costs/difference in lifetime health outcomes) to compare the cost-effectiveness of CXL versus conventional management with PKP.Lifetime costs and QALYs for CXL were estimated to be Can$5530 (Can$4512, discounted) and 50.12 QALYs (16.42 QALYs, discounted). Lifetime costs and QALYs for conventional management with PKP were Can$2675 (Can$1508, discounted) and 48.93 QALYs (16.09 QALYs, discounted). The discounted ICER comparing CXL to conventional management was Can$9090/QALY gained. Sensitivity analyses revealed that in general, parameter variations did not influence the cost-effectiveness of CXL.CXL is cost-effective compared with conventional management with PKP in the treatment of keratoconus. Our ICER of Can$9090/QALY falls well below the range of Can$20 000 to Can$100 000/QALY and below US$50 000/QALY, thresholds generally used to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of health interventions in Canada and the United States. This study provides strong economic evidence for the cost-effectiveness of early CXL in keratoconus.

BACKGROUND: Selective inferior orbital fissure (IOF) content transection for the purpose of surgical access to the posterior orbital floor is a technique that facilitates visualization of the posterior bony ledges of traumatic orbital floor defects. It also has potential advantages in achieving stable placement of reconstructive materials. Although not new, the surgical technique has not yet been described, and the morbidity of the technique has not been quantified. This article describes the procedure and assesses the morbidity specific to the division of related neural structures. METHODS: The technique and surgical anatomy are described and illustrated with intraoperative photographs. Postoperative assessment of neural structures relevant to the division of IOF contents is performed. These values are compared with the nonoperated side to evaluate the morbidity of the technique. RESULTS: The technique, which is consistently used by the senior author in the repair of orbital floor defects with very small posterior ledges or which extend to and involve the IOF, facilitates better visualization of the posterior ledge and posterolateral ledge in such cases. Surgical outcomes including facial sensation and lacrimal function on the operated side remain within the reference range and are not significantly different when compared with the contralateral nonoperated side. CONCLUSIONS: Selective IOF transection aids in the direct visualization of the posterior bony ledges in the repair of posterior orbital floor defects. It therefore may facilitate the placement of reconstructive materials on bony ledges circumferentially, providing stable reconstruction, potentially reducing implant-related complications without causing increased morbidity.

Chemical injuries involving the eye account for 11.5%–22.1% of ocular trauma. They occur primarily in industrial and agricultural settings.[1][1],[2][2] Irrigation with isotonic solutions (e.g., normal saline and lactated Ringer solution) or clean water should be started immediately after

Purpose To report a case of fungal keratitis caused by Metarhizium anisopliae complex Methods Case report Results Our patient presented with a central corneal infiltrate. Fungal culture yielded a Metarhizium species. She was started on antifungal agents with no significant improvement. A therapeutic corneal transplant was performed after perforation. At two years follow up, she was free of infection. Conclusion Metarhizium anisopliae is a very rare cause of keratitis. Although previous reported cases showed clinical improvement with antifungal agents, this case required surgical treatment to control the infection.

The purpose of this study is to describe a novel technique using amniotic membrane suture-fixated onto custom-designed symblepharon rings in a patient with acute toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN).A 61-year-old man developed bilateral symblephara and severe ocular surface inflammation from Stevens-Johnson syndrome/TEN secondary to allopurinol. Eight days after admission, he was treated with placement of custom-designed symblepharon rings, designed by one of the authors (A.A.), covered with amniotic membrane. This method was used to allow for efficient placement of the membrane and to minimize operative time and perioperative risks due to his worsening systemic condition.On postoperative day 49, his visual acuity was 20/20 in the right eye and 20/25 in the left eye. Both eyes were quiet with only small symblephara noted temporally.The use of amniotic membrane suture-fixated to custom-designed symblepharon rings provides sufficient coverage of the ocular surface, leading to excellent visual and clinical outcomes by reducing inflammation and protecting the ocular surface from the cicatrizing sequelae associated with ocular-involving TEN. This novel technique is less invasive, more time efficient, and likely safe for even the most critically ill patients with significant risk for mortality, thus allowing any treating ophthalmologist to comfortably perform this important sight-saving procedure.

PURPOSE To report the first case of fungal keratitis caused by presumed Carpoligna species. METHODS A 37-year-old gardener sustained a full-thickness, stellate corneal laceration while cutting wood outdoors with a circular saw. Two months after surgical repair, he developed a severe infectious keratitis with descemetocoele at the apex of the original stellate laceration. RESULTS Culture results confirmed fungal elements without evidence of bacteria. Oral and topical voriconazole were initiated. Due to compliance and cost issues, voriconazole was replaced with natamycin 5% prior to discharge from hospital. The patient improved and healed without perforation. The patient was left with a central stromal scar. DNA extraction from the fungal colony allowed PCR amplification of the 28s ribosomal RNA region of the fungus that led to the diagnosis of Carpoligna pleurothecii. Corticosteroids were never used during the patient's treatment. CONCLUSION This is the first reported case of infectious keratitis caused by presumed Carpoligna species. The treatment for Carpoligna pleurothecii keratitis includes voriconazole, natamycin, and possibly amphotericin B.

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare baseline clinical and socioeconomic features of patients undergoing self-funded photodynamic therapy (PDT) or government-funded subthreshold transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) with a diode laser for subfoveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods: Between July 2000 and August 2001, 115 patients with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to AMD were offered PDT as an initial intervention. If individuals believed that they could not afford or did not want PDT, then TTT was offered. In masked fashion, leakage pattern and lesion size were determined retrospectively from pretreatment angiograms. Baseline visual acuity was determined with autorefraction and subsequent Snellen testing.The mean income of each treatment group was estimated from the average sex-specific income for each subject's postal code, based on the 1996 Canadian census data.The average education level for each subject's postal code was also determined. Results: The patients who were not willing to pay for PDT had significantly worse macular disease before treatment (larger lesions and poorer visual acuity) and a significantly lower mean income than the patients who were willing to pay for PDT. Interpretation: The severity of exudative choroidal neovascularization appears to be associated with lower socioeconomic status.

Purpose: To determine the safety and efficacy of implanting a second intraocular lens (IOL) to correct myopic pseudophakic refractive error after penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). Setting: Department of Ophthalmology, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Methods: In this retrospective case series, 6 eyes of 6 post-PKP pseudophakic patients had a second piggyback IOL implantation to correct a residual myopic refractive error. The uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) and the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were measured at regular intervals during a 7-month follow-up. Efficacy was determined by the achieved refractive correction and Snellen UCVA measurements. Safety was measured by loss of BCVA and complications (intraoperative and postoperative). Results: The UCVA improved in all cases. Five patients achieved a BCVA of 20/40 or better postoperatively. Before surgery, the mean spherical equivalent (SE) was −8.08 diopters (D) (range −6.13 to −12.00 D). After surgery, the mean SE was −0.94 D (range −2.38 to +0.25 D). Four patients were within ±1.50 D of emmetropia. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. Conclusion: Implanting a piggyback IOL was a safe and effective means of correcting myopic pseudophakic refractive error post PKP.

Purpose The aim of this study was to compare the tensile strength of slip knots with that of 3-1-1 knots using 10-0 nylon sutures. Methods In vitro, destructive materials testing was used. By adhering to the American Standard for Testing and Materials standards for testing of suture materials, slip knots were compared with 3-1-1 knots using 10-0 nylon suture material. Tensile testing was performed on each knot type using the Instron Microtester (Model 5848 Norwood, MA). Scanning electron microscopy was used to analyze all sutures tested to failure. The main outcome measure was the maximum load (newtons) or ultimate tensile strength before which each knot failed by breakage or by unraveling. Results The mean force resulting in failure by breakage of the 3-1-1 knot and slip knot was 0.71 and 0.64 N, respectively (P = 0.048). The mean force resulting in failure by the unraveling of the 3-1-1 knot and slip knot was 0.48 and 0.37 N, respectively (P = 0.022). Conclusions In 10-0 nylon sutures, the 3-1-1 knot has a statistically significant greater tensile strength than the slip knot has in conditions wherein they fail by either breakage or unraveling.

The fate of the injured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is variable. The spectrum of injury ranges from partial sprain (grade 1 or 2) to a complete disruption (grade 3), which may occur in isolation or in combination with injury to other structures in the knee. Postinjury symptoms of knee instability usually depend on the degree of joint laxity and the athletic demands of the individual. If an ACL injury is left untreated, repeated episodes of subluxation can inflict further intra-articular damage, with an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis. Predicting the outcome after ACL injury is difficult, and treatment should be individualized.

Anterior segment stem cell technology, due to its already well-defined corneal limbal stem cells with greater ease of evaluation, has been at the forefront of ophthalmic stem cell treatment and technology since 1997. This paper provides an overview of the current standard of care for treatment of limbal stem-cell deficient conditions and reviews recent treatment technologies using ex vivo expansion of cultivated limbal stem cells of the cornea.

To describe the clinical characteristics, time of presentation, risk factors, treatment, outcomes, and prognostic factors on a recent series of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) treated at our institution.Retrospective case series of 59 patients diagnosed with AK from January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2008. Of these 59 patients, 51 had complete follow-up data and were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses performed with "failure" defined as requiring a penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) and/or having (1) best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA)20/100 or (2) BCVA20/25 at the last follow-up. A single multivariate model incorporating age, sex, steroid use before diagnosis, time to diagnosis, initial visual acuity (VA), stromal involvement, and diagnostic method was performed.Symptom onset was greatest in the summer and lowest in the winter. With failure defined as requiring PKP and/or final BCVA20/100, univariate analysis suggests that age50 years, female sex, initial VA20/50, stromal involvement, and patients with a confirmed tissue diagnosis had a significant risk for failure; however, none of these variables were significant using multivariate analysis. Univariate analysis, with failure defined as requiring PKP and/or final BCVA20/25, showed stromal involvement and initial VA20/50 were significant for failure-only initial VA20/50 was significant using multivariate analysis.Symptom onset for AK is greatest in the summer. Patients with confirmed tissue diagnosis and female patients may have a higher risk for failure, but a larger prospective population-based study is required to confirm this. Failure is likely associated with patients who present with stromal involvement and patients presenting with an initial BCVA worse than 20/50.

To report the clinical and histopathological findings of 3 cases of late-onset deep infectious keratitis after Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) with vent incisions.From a retrospective review of 150 consecutive patients who underwent uncomplicated DSEK with vent incisions, 3 patients developed late-onset deep infectious keratitis.In case 1, the patient suffered a Pseudomonas corneal ulcer at the nasal vent incision after a dacryocystorhinostomy with stent, 16 months after DSEK. In case 2, a Streptococcus pneumoniae infection developed at the inferior vent incision from a spastic entropion 3 months after surgery. In case 3, an Enterococcus faecalis corneal ulcer presented as a deep stromal abscess in the nasal vent incision 7 weeks after DSEK. All cases required full-thickness penetrating keratoplasties. Visual acuities at the last follow-up were counting fingers (case 1), 20/80 (case 2), and 20/400 (case 3).Vent incisions in DSEK may allow bacterial keratitis to penetrate deeply leading to aggressive keratolysis. One must be cautious in using vent incisions in patients with increased bacterial flora and patients with poor ocular surface healing from systemic, local, or mechanical conditions. If vent incisions are performed, a midperipheral oblique incision, parallel to the limbus, with meticulous detail to wound construction is recommended.

To evaluate the outcomes of the Boston Keratoprosthesis (KPro) at our institution.A computerized database retrospectively identified all patients who received a Boston KPro from August 2005 to October 2007.There were 37 patients, 24 (65%) were male. Mean age was 66.3 years (median 69 years, range: 24-93 years; SD = 18.1 years). Mean follow-up was 16 months (range: 6-28 months; SD = 6.0 months). There were 36 type 1 (97%) and 1 type 2 (3%) KPros. The primary indication was failed penetrating keratoplasty in 29 patients (78%)-22 (59%) from multiple failures. Preoperative comorbidities included glaucoma [27 patients (73%)] and limbal stem cell deficiency [13 patients (35%)]. No intraoperative complications occurred. Postoperative complications included retroprosthetic membrane [24 patients (65%)], increased intraocular pressure [14 patients (38%)], glaucoma progression [5 patients (13.5%)], and endophthalmitis [4 patients (11%)-3 who discontinued prophylactic antibiotics secondary to compliance]. Thirty-six KPros (97%) were retained-1 type 2 KPro (3%) in a patient with ocular cicatricial pemphigoid extruded and was replaced. Mean best-corrected visual acuities were counting fingers preoperatively (range: light perception to 20/100) and 20/90 at last follow-up (range: light perception to 20/25). At last follow-up, 31 patients (84%) improved 2 lines or greater-3 patients (8%) had worse vision.Retention rates were excellent, and best-corrected visual acuities improved in the vast majority of patients. Complications can occur and require frequent follow-up to monitor and treat glaucoma progression, endophthalmitis, and inflammation. Patient compliance is of paramount importance. Despite the potential complications, the Boston KPro provides visual improvement in patients with an otherwise poor prognosis.

Cancer-associated retinopathy (CAR) is a well-described paraneoplastic syndrome that is mediated by antiretinal antibodies.1 Inflammatory changes such as optic disc oedema and retinal vasculitis have not been reported in CAR. Although CAR has been reported with various tumours, there have been no reports of paraneoplastic retinopathy or optic neuropathy with pineal gland tumours.2 We report a case of a novel paraneoplastic syndrome consisting of bilateral disc oedema and retinal periphlebitis in a patient with pineal gland germinoma. A 14-year-old boy with a pineal gland tumour was referred because of blurred vision. Best-corrected visual acuity was 20/20 in the right eye and 20/20 in the left eye. Examination of the pupils and eye movements verified the presence of a dorsal midbrain syndrome. Anterior segment examination and intraocular pressures were normal. Dilated fundus examination showed bilateral …

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare photodynamic therapy (PDT) against subthreshold transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) with a diode laser for subfoveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods: Patients with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to AMD were offered PDT as an initial intervention. If they declined PDT, then TTT was offered. Results: We evaluated and followed 115 consecutive patients for an average of 1 year. The primary outcome measure was visual acuity, but the interventions were also compared on the basis of lesion size and angiographically determined lesion activity. Baseline comparisons between the 2 treatment groups showed significant differences in pretreatment visual acuity, lesion size, and lesion composition. Univariate analysis of outcomes demonstrated equivalence between the treatment groups in final lesion size,angiographic activity,and visual acuity. Multivariate analysis also demonstrated equivalence between the treatment groups in final visual acuity while controlling for age, pretreatment visual acuity, and lesion category. Predominantly classic lesions were associated with poorer visual outcomes. Interpretation: The PDT and TTT groups were equivalent in terms of all outcome parameters evaluated.

Purpose: The goal of the study was to determine the safety and analgesic efficacy of a patient-controlled infusion pump that dispenses bupivacaine extra-articularly to the infrapatellar fat pad after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with ipsilateral bone–patellar tendon–bone autogenous graft. Type of Study: Prospective clinical study. Methods: Twenty-one consecutive patients were enrolled in the study. After surgery, the catheter of a bupivacaine infusion pump was implanted extra-articularly onto the infrapatellar fat pad. Ten patients were given infusion pumps with 50 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine to be self-administered for analgesia. Eleven patients were given infusion pumps with 50 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine. Opioid analgesics were available if patients were unable to control the pain solely with the bupivacaine pump. Historic controls consisted of 62 consecutive patients who underwent ACL reconstruction before study initiation. Patients recorded volumes of self-administered bupivacaine; also recorded were postoperative pain levels using a visual analog scale (VAS). Opioid analgesic usage was measured and compared with historic controls. Results: Amount of bupivacaine infused and VAS recorded pain levels were not significantly different between the 0.5% and the 0.25% bupivacaine groups. Opioid analgesic usage was significantly reduced when the 0.5% bupivacaine group was compared with historic controls (mean morphine equivalents via intramuscular route: 0.5% group, 17.6 mg; historic controls, 66.4 mg; P =.015). This was also significant when normalized by patient weight (0.5% group, 0.227 mg/kg; historic controls, 0.880 mg/kg; P =.023). Opioid usage in the 0.25% group (35.7 mg and 0.540 mg/kg) was also less than historic controls; however, this was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Infrapatellar fat pad infusion with 0.5% bupivacaine may provide enhanced analgesia after ACL reconstruction with ipsilateral bone–patellar tendon–bone autogenous graft. A double-blinded, randomized control trial with a greater number of patients is required to confirm these findings. Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery, Vol 19, No 5 (May-June), 2003: pp 500–505

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (RAAA) have a 78-94% mortality rate. If cost-effectiveness of screening programs for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are to be assessed, direct costs for RAAA repairs and elective AAA (EAAA) repairs are required. This study reports mortality, morbidity, and direct costs for RAAA and EAAA repairs in Nova Scotia in 1997-1998 and also compares Nova Scotia and U.S. costs. We performed a retrospective study of 41 consecutive RAAA and 48 randomly selected EAAA patients. Average total costs for RAAA repair were significantly greater than those for EAAA repair (direct costs: $15,854 vs. $9673; direct plus overhead costs: $18,899 vs. $12,324 [pricing in 1998 Canadian dollars]). Intensive care unit length of stay and blood product usage were the most substantial direct cost differentials ($3593 and $2106). Direct cost for preoperative testing and surveillance was greater in the EAAA group ($839 vs. $33). Estimates of U.S. in-hospital RAAA and EAAA repair costs are more than 1.5 times Nova Scotia costs. Direct in-hospital RAAA repair costs are $6181 more than EAAA repair costs. These in-hospital cost data are key cost elements required to assess the cost-effectiveness of various screening strategies for earlier detection and monitoring of AAA within high-risk populations in Canada. Further studies are required to estimate cost per quality-adjusted-life-year gained for various AAA screening and monitoring strategies in Canada.

The objective of meniscal repair is to prevent the early onset of osteoarthritis and alleviate the symptoms of a torn meniscus. In order to minimize the risk of neurovascular damage when repairing posterior and lateral horn tears of the meniscus, an all-inside arthroscopic surgical technique has been developed using a polylactic acid (PLA) tack as a bioabsorbable "meniscal arrow". This paper is a retrospective study that evaluates the efficacy of this technique. Post-operative evaluation was performed by chart review and surveys with respect to knee function (Lysholm Scale), activity level (Tegner Activity Scale), and patient quality of life (Medical Outcomes Survey, Short Form-36). Clinical evaluation showed that 12 of 13 patients had successful repair by this technuque. Eight patients had normal range-of-motion (ROM), three were restricted, and two were unrecorded. Surveys were completed by 8 of 13 patients. Six of eight survey respondents returned to pre-injury levels of sport activity. Mean scores of the eight survey respondents on the Short Form-36 showed slightly lower than average values for Physical Functioning (PF), Role-Physical (RP), and Bodily Pain (BP); however, General Health (GH), Vitality (VT), Social Functioning (SF), Role-Emotinal (RE), and Mental Health (MH) scores were above average. All study values were within 1.2 SD of the norm. Quality of life did not appear to be affected. Seven of eight survey respondents reported slight impairment while squatting. The all-inside meniscal arrow repair technique was effective and appropriate in repairing meniscal tears of the knee. Unfortunately, difficulty in squatting and restriction of ROM are two sequelae that may occur post-operatively.

Purpose:To determine the characteristics of endophthalmitis in patients with the Boston keratoprosthesis.Methods:Retrospective chart review of 4 out of 35 patients who underwent implantation of the Boston keratoprosthesis on the Wills Eye Cornea service between 2001 and 2007 and developed infectious