Abstract
Purpose: :
To examine the initial results of penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) surgery where the trephination of both donor and hose is performed utilizing the femtosecond laser
Methods: :
The IntraLase modified femtosecond laser performed a "top hat" configured PKP incision on the donor corneoscleral rim and an identical pattern on the patient’s cornea. Suturing was by standard techniques including interrupted and running sutures at various depths..
Principle outcome measures: :
uncorrected and best spectacle corrected visual acuities, intraocular pressure, corneal topography, and suture/wound interaction.
Results: :
Initial results confirm previously reported laboratory simulations, with uncomplicated trephination of donor and host by the laser. The posterior "lip" of the donor provides additional surface area for healing and reduces the potential for leakage, but must be combined with appropriate suture technique. Tight interrupted sutures, in particular, have the predilection for puckering of the lip with reduction of the efficacy of the wound sealing. Patient enrollment is ongoing and updated outcomes will be presented.
Conclusions: :
The femtosecond laser allows the creation of precise incision patterns not readily achieved by standard trephination technique. The preliminary outcomes indicate excellent wound integrity and rapid recovery of vision.
Keywords: cornea: clinical science • transplantation • laser