Abstract
Purpose :
To describe a novel instrument and method of implanting a type I Boston Keratoprosthesis (KPro) in select eyes.
Methods :
The instrument design includes an arm with a depression to receive the optional locking ring, 4 prongs that hold the back plate of the keratoprosthesis, and a ridge that protects the assembly as it is inserted into the eye. The other arm comprises a drive nut positioned above the implantation end. The 2 arms are connected to a handle. A separate thumbscrew is inserted through the drive nut to assemble the KPro.
Results :
Two donor human globes were used. A peritomy was performed followed by the creation of a 10mm scleral tunnel temporally using a crescent blade. A paracentesis was created and healon was injected in the anterior chamber. A 3-mm dertmatologic punch was used to trephine the center of the host cornea. A microkeratome was used to enter the eye through the scleral tunnel and the wound was enlarged to the full length. The KPro inserter was used to insert the KPro through the scleral tunnel and assemble it in-situ, which was successful and secure in all cases.
Conclusions :
The KPro inserter is a less invasive way of implanting a KPro without the need for a corneal graft. This may result in increased safety of the procedure.
This abstract was presented at the 2023 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in New Orleans, LA, April 23-27, 2023.