Use of novel hydrogel scaffold to assist Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) surgery

Abstract

Purpose : To develop a scaffold that will attach to DMEK donor tissue and will readily un-scroll in the eye, facilitating surgery.

Methods : The hydrogel support composed of a cross-linked network consisting predominately of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and sebacic acid, with a small amount (~5 wt%) of poly(caprolactone) (PCL), was developed and tested in vivo. The DMEK donor tissue was attached to the PEG hydrogel. Mock surgery was performed using a Busin glide and forceps to insert the DMEK graft attached to the hydrogel support into the anterior chamber.

Results : DMEK tissue can be safely and effectively attached to the PEG scaffold. The hydrogel support has sufficient strength to withstand surgical insertion and reliably opens in the anterior chamber. The hydrogel support does not appear to interfere with the function of the endothelial cells.

Conclusions : Use of this novel construct assists making DMEK surgery more DSAEK-like and should enable greater uptake of DMEK. The biodegradeable and transparent scaffold should dissolve within the eye, with no detectable toxicity.

This is a 2020 ARVO Annual Meeting abstract.