Abstract
Purpose :
We hypothesize that a keratoprosthesis can be constructed of biocompatible flexible acrylic such as that commonly used in intraocular lenses and can be used to restore the corneal visual axis in a minimally invasive manner without the need for cornea carrier tissue.
Methods :
A keratoprosthesis mold was produced using computer aided design software. A mixture of phenylethyl methacrylate, phenylethyl acrylate, hexanediol crosslinking agent, and free radical initiator was poured into the mold and allowed to polymerize overnight at 100C to form a keratoprosthesis. The keratoprosthesis was assessed for toxicity by MTT assay. It was implanted into ex vivo cadaveric eyes. It was then tested in vivo in 5 rabbits.
Results :
After polymerization a flexible clear acrylic keratoprosthesis is produced. It showed ability to deform and flex when warm, but remained stiff and in shape at room temperature. The material was not found to be toxic by MTT assay. It could be implanted into a 3 mm corneal trephination. 5 rabbits were able to retain the keratoprosthesis for 1 month.
Conclusions :
A full thickness flexible acrylic keratoprosthesis can be produced and implanted into the cornea through a 3 mm trephination without need for carrier cornea tissue.
This is an abstract that was submitted for the 2017 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Baltimore, MD, May 7-11, 2017.