Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose:To evaluate the safety and efficacy of microkeratome–assisted lamellar keratoplasty in eyes with ectasia from keratoconus or previous LASIK Methods:10 consecutive eyes with cornea ectasia and poor visual rehabilitation were treated with a lamellar graft of 8mm diameter and 350 micron thickness following removal of 8.5mm diameter anterior cornea of 250 micron thickness with the Moria ALTK system. 16 10–0 interrupted sutures were used. We evaluated pre–, and post–operative refraction, topographic astigmatism, cornea and flap thickness, and possible complications. Follow–up was 6–12 months (7.5) Results:10 eyes were included. The mean values were: refractive error: sphere: –6,25 D (–0.75 to –9.50) postop –2.50 and cylinder: –5.75D (–1.25 to –8,75) postop –3.50. UCVA improved from 20/400 to 20/60 and BCSVA from 20/80 to 20/30. 3 eyes underwent further PRK treatment for sphero–cylinder adjustment. Conclusions:Our early experience with this procedure appears to be safe and very effective for correction of refractive error, irregular astigmatism, and the improvement of visual function. It offers the advantages of minimal rejection risk, wider spectrum of donor cornea selection and operative in–office technique. It should be viewed though, as a possible 2 step procedure in regard to spherical adjustment.
Keywords: transplantation • keratoconus • refractive surgery: complications