SPS-210 Cornea Procedures and Outcomes II- Other | ASCRS
April 25-28, 2025 | Los Angeles, CA

2025 ASCRS Annual Meeting

SPS-210
Cornea Procedures and Outcomes II- Other 

Moderator
Emine Esra Karaca, MD
Panelists
Huck A. Holz, MD
Surendra Basti, MD, ABO

Viewing Papers
Expand a paper title to the right to view the paper abstract and authors. Use the video link to jump to that poster in the session.

6-Mo Data Analysis of Clara: A Phase 1/2 Clinical Trial of Human Corneal Endothelial Cell Therapy for Corneal Edema Secondary to CED. (Al-Mohtaseb)

Authors

Presenting Author
Zaina Al-Mohtaseb, MD, ABO
Co-Authors
W. Barry Lee MD, Severin Pouly MD, Christian Hester MD, Brandon Ayres MD, Martin de la Presa MD, Matthew Giegengack MD, Eric Donnenfeld MD, Nicole Fram MD, Nysha Blender PhD, OD, Eris Jordan OD, Michael Goldstein MBA, MD, J.D. Osborne BA, MBA

Paper Abstract

Purpose
The primary obj. of the CLARA study is to evaluate the efficacy of a single dose of varied concentrations of human CECs in combination with Y-27632 Rho-Kinase Inhibitor (i.e., AURN001) compared to CECs alone, and Y-27632 alone in subjects with corneal edema. The secondary obj. is to evaluate safety & tolerability of the IP in the same population.

Methods
The primary efficacy endpoint is measured by the proportion of subjects with a ?15-letter improvement from baseline in BCVA at six months. Secondary efficacy endpoints include change from baseline in BCVA and CCT at six months. Exploratory endpoint is VFQ-25. Safety and tolerability of the product candidate are assessed by TEAEs, graft rejection and rescue rates. This trial has five treatment arms with approximately 20 subjects enrolled per arm. All treated subjects will participate in the clinical trial for approximately 12 months. This is the six-month interim data analysis.

Results
97 subjects with corneal edema secondary to corneal endothelial dysfunction were enrolled across 20 sites in North America. A dose-dependent response was observed for both primary (% of subjects achieving a ?3-line gain in BCVA) and secondary (changes in BCVA & CCT from baseline) endpoints, as well as in the proportion of subjects requiring rescue surgery by month six. Patient-reported outcomes, assessed using the VFQ-25 questionnaire, demonstrated dose dependent quality-of-life improvements. The investigational drug was generally well tolerated, showing a favorable safety profile with no ocular SAEs, TEAEs leading to discontinuation, or graft rejections, across all trial groups.

Conclusion
In the ongoing CLARA clinical trial, subjects demonstrated a dose-dependent response in both primary and secondary endpoints. PROs indicated QOL improvements, consistent with a dose-dependent response. Treatment was well tolerated with a favorable safety profile. The clinical trial�s completion is anticipated in the first half of 2025.

Primary & Recurrent Pterygia Excision Performed Via Modified Anduze Technique (no graft) with MMC 0.02% Applied to the Subconjunctival Space (Spies)

Authors

Presenting Author
Daniela Spies, BA
Co-Authors
William Trattler MD, Gaston Lacayo MD, Alexandros Pappas DO, Nicole Kantor BSc, Chase Boehmer DO, Alexandra Gil BSc

Paper Abstract

Purpose
Retrospective analysis of postoperative outcomes including recurrence & complication rates following primary or recurrent pterygium excision using the modified Anduze technique, which aims to preserve conjunctiva, performed at a tertiary care center in South Florida between April 2014 and February 2024.

Methods
A retrospective review of 317 eyes enrolled in a registry that underwent pterygium excision without a graft followed by placement of 0.02% MMC via a 30 gauge needle in the remaining subconjunctival tissue was performed. The technique aims to preserve conjunctiva & focuses on removal of subconjunctival tissue, & avoids the use of cautery to the sclera. 258 eyes were primary and 59 eyes were recurrent. Data was collected regarding demographics, follow-up duration, history of previous pterygium removal, and post-operative outcomes including complications and recurrence. Outcomes from a second surgeon using conjunctival autograft in 218 eyes were also analyzed.

Results
The average post-operative follow-up duration was 14.1 months. The mean age at time of surgery was 55 years; 258 eyes (81.4%) had no previous pterygium surgery. 59 eyes (18.6%) had a history of previous pterygium surgery. 24 of 317 eyes (7.5%) developed any degree of pterygium recurrence. Only 4 eyes of 317 (1.3%) had a pterygium recurrence requiring repeat pterygium excision. The most common postoperative complication was the formation of a pyogenic granuloma. A series of patients from a different surgeon in the same practice underwent pterygium excision with conjunctival autograft (and no MMC), and had 10 of 218 (4.6%) eyes with a recurrence, although none required repeat surgery.

Conclusion
This retrospective review demonstrates that the Modified Anduze Technique, which avoids the need for a graft as well as the use of cautery, is a safe and effective method of pterygium removal with an acceptable risk profile, and a low rate of requiring a second pterygium excision.

Impact of Pre-Operative and Donor Factors on the Rate of Corneal Graft Clearance: Insights from Serial As-OCT Imaging (Palioura)

Authors

Presenting Author
Sotiria Palioura, MD, MSc, PhD, ABO, CEBT
Co-Authors
Stylianos Christodoulou MD, MSc, Dimitris Kola MD, Fedonas Herodotou MD, Aikaterini Athanasiadou MSc, Chara Tzavara PhD, MSc, Anastasia Neokleous MD, MSc, Georgina Hadjilouka FEBO, PhD, MD, Neofytos Michael MD, Peter Cikatricis MD, FRCOphth

Paper Abstract

Purpose
To assess the impact of pre-operative and donor-related factors on the rate of corneal graft clearance using serial Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography (AS-OCT) imaging.

Methods
Prospective cohort study of 65 patients (70 eyes) undergoing corneal transplantation (PKP, DSAEK, and DMEK) from October 2021 to April 2024, with at least 3 months follow-up with serial AS-OCT scans at fixed post-operative intervals. Mixed linear regression models with time-splines were used to assess changes in corneal and transplant thickness over time. Adjusted regression coefficients (?) and standard errors (SE) were calculated. The effect of pre-operative and donor factors on the rate of graft clearance was investigated.

Results
Central corneal thickness (CCT) decreased up to 3 months post-surgery [?(SE)=-1.78 (0.12); p<0.001], stabilizing="" thereafter="" [?(se)="0.05" (0.05);="" p="0.335]." similarly,="" graft="" thickness="" decreased="" up="" to="" 3="" months="" [?(se)="-0.005" (0.0004);=""><0.001], then="" remained="" stable="" [?(se)="0.0001" (0.0002);="" p="0.339]." pkp="" surgeries="" showed="" a="" slower="" decrease="" in="" cct="" compared="" to="" dsaek="" [?(se)="0.003" (0.001);="" p="0.003]" until="" the="" 3rd="" month.="" pbk="" or="" fuchs="" was="" associated="" with="" lower="" graft="" thickness="" than="" failed="" grafts="" [?(se)="-0.88" (0.22);=""><0.001 and="" se)="-1.12" (0.22);=""><0.001, respectively].="" a="" longer="" death-to-preservation="" time="" was="" positively="" associated="" with="" graft="" thickness="" [?(se)="0.0007" (0.0002);="" p="">

Conclusion
Critical pre-operative and donor-related factors influence the rate of corneal graft clearance. Serial AS-OCT imaging is essential for monitoring graft health. Careful donor tissue selection and pre operative assessment, as well as the integration of advanced imaging techniques in clinical practice, may enhance corneal transplantation outcomes.

Long-Term Telemonitoring of Corneal Grafts Via Anterior Segment Optical Coherence (AS-OCT) Tomography Pachymetry Maps (Palioura)

Authors

Presenting Author
Sotiria Palioura, MD, MSc, PhD, ABO, CEBT
Co-Authors
Neofytos Michael MD, Anastasia Neokleous MD, MSc, Fedonas Herodotou MD, Aikaterini Athanasiadou MSc, Stylianos Christodoulou MD, MSc, Dimitris Kola MD, Klea Panayidou MSc, PhD, BSc, Georgina Hadjilouka FEBO, PhD, MD

Paper Abstract

Purpose
To assess the efficacy of Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography (AS-OCT) in long-term monitoring of corneal grafts and its integration into telemedicine for early detection and management of graft rejection or failure.

Methods
Prospective cohort study of 74 patients (93 eyes) who underwent corneal transplantation between October 2021 and December 2023 and with a minimum follow-up of 6 months. Serial AS-OCT pachymetry maps and cross-sectional scans were performed at fixed post-operative intervals and the findings were correlated with clinical signs of graft rejection or failure on slit-lamp examination. All patients were enrolled in a telemedicine protocol for remote AS-OCT monitoring starting at 1 week post-operatively.

Results
AS-OCT demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy with a specificity of 97.62% and sensitivity of 88.89% in detecting graft rejection or failure, through precise measurements of corneal and graft thickness. The mean central corneal thickness increase in cases leading to graft rejection or failure was 82.67 � 21.45 ?m. Three representative cases are described in detail. The utility of AS-OCT in remote monitoring reduced the need for frequent in-person visits, optimizing resource allocation and patient convenience.

Conclusion
Serial AS-OCT imaging is an invaluable tool for corneal graft surveillance, providing objective and quantitative assessments of graft performance even without clinical signs and symptoms. Its accurate, real-time data makes it an excellent tool for remote monitoring, transforming post-operative care and significantly improving patient outcomes.

Modified �No Touch� Transepithelial Phototherapeutic Keratectomy for Band Keratopathy. (Shah)

Authors

Presenting Author
Rachana P Shah, MBBS, MS
Co-Authors
Mayank Nanavaty DO, MBBS, FRCOphth

Paper Abstract

Purpose
To report the outcomes of novel �no-touch� transepithelial phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) in treating band keratopathy (BK).

Methods
A retrospective analysis was performed on patients who underwent PTK for BK at Sussex Eye Laser Clinic, Brighton. Patients with BK affecting visual acuity or causing discomfort were considered for PTK. All the patients underwent thorough preoperative evaluation, corneal topography and optical coherence tomography. �No- touch� PTK was performed without using EDTA chelation or alcohol for epithelium debridement. Excimer laser was applied in a step-by-step manner until an adequate ablation was obtained. Patients were followed up at 1 week and then every 2 weeks thereafter until 2 months. Preoperative and postoperative best corrected visual acuities (BCVA) were compared using a paired t-test.

Results
We studied 15 eyes of 9 patients undergoing novel PTK for BK. The mean age was 80 � 5.73 years. The mean pre-treatment visual acuity was 0.68�0.17 logMAR (range: 0.6 logMAR to 1 logMAR) and improved to 0.22�0.09 logMAR (p <0.05), ranging="" from="" 0.18="" to="" 0.48="" logmar="" at="" two="" months="" following="" ptk.="" improvement="" in="" the="" bcva="" was="" seen="" in="" all="" the="" patients="" and="" it="" was="" statistically="" significant=""><0.05). none="" of="" the="" patients="" complained="" of="" ocular="" discomfort="" following="" the="" procedure.="" a="" repeat="" procedure="" was="" not="" required="" for="" any="" of="" these="">

Conclusion
�No-touch� transepithelial PTK is an effective procedure for improving visual outcomes and providing faster recovery in patients with band keratopathy and should be considered for the treatment of band keratopathy.

The Use of Peri-Operative Topical Recombinant Human Nerve Growth Factor for Advanced Neurotrophic Keratopathy (Huang)

Authors

Presenting Author
Wendy Huang, MD, ABO
Co-Authors
Olivia Lee MD, Blaze Ann Carbonell BSc

Paper Abstract

Purpose
To describe the use of topical recombinant human nerve growth factor (rhNGF) as an adjuvant therapy with corneal surgery in eyes with neurotrophic keratopathy (NK). This case series offers novel data in a population that was previously excluded in clinical trials.

Methods
Topical cenergermin 0.002% (Dompe, Milan, Italy) 6 times per day for 8 weeks was administered to the affected eye before or after surgery. Retrospective review was performed and included demographics, duration of nonhealing ulcer or defect prior to and after rhNGF treatment, and time relative to surgery at which rhNGF therapy was initiated. All available photos, ocular imaging, and corneal sensation testing were reviewed. All procedures were performed by a single surgeon.

Results
Thirteen eyes of 13 patients with stage 2 (6/13) or stage 3 (7/13) NK received topical rhNGF. Surgical procedures performed on these eyes by a single surgeon included 9 PKPs, 2 EDTA chelations, 1 DALK and 1 DSAEK. All eyes had history of stromal scarring associated with persistent epithelial defect, stromal ulceration, and/or corneal perforation. 64% of eyes undergoing keratoplasty had 1 or more prior failed transplants. Perioperative rhNGF therapy was used pre-operatively (5/13) or post-operatively (8/13) depending on clinical course. No eyes experienced corneal perforation, primary graft failure, wound dehiscence or infectious keratitis in the postoperative period.

Conclusion
NK eyes are poor surgical candidates due to risk of poor corneal healing and associated complications. Our series demonstrates that rhNGF can be used safely as adjuvent therapy to mitigate these complications when combined with a corneal surgery.

Precise-Bio Vision Endothelial Keratoplasty for Endothelial Decompensation: Collagen Scaffold with 3D-Printed Expanded Endothelial Cells (Mimouni)

Authors

Presenting Author
Michael Mimouni, MD
Co-Authors
Lior Rosenberg Belmaker PhD, Amos Eitan BEng, Yishay Hayardeni BEng, Eitan Livny MD, David Zadok MD, Dorin Sade Yazdi PhD

Paper Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of Precise-Bio Vision Endothelial Keratoplasty (PVEK), a bioengineered corneal endothelial implant, in a rabbit model. PVEK consists of a collagen-based scaffold integrated with high-density, 3D-printed, donor-expanded human endothelial cells.

Methods
Methods: 64 New Zealand White rabbits underwent an 8.25 mm descemetorhexis and were randomized into three groups: PVEK (implantation of a PVEK implant), Scaffold-only (implantation of a collagen-based scaffold), and Sham (descemetorhexis only). Both PVEK and Scaffold-only groups utilized C3F8 for endotamponade. Primary outcome measures included corneal cloudiness (graded 0-4) and central corneal thickness measured by optical coherence tomography at one, three, and six months post-procedure. Secondary outcomes encompassed endothelial cell counts and temporal changes in corneal thickness.

Results
At six months, the PVEK group demonstrated significantly superior outcomes compared to other groups. Mean central corneal thickness in the PVEK group (390.57 � 62.1 ?m) was significantly lower than both the Scaffold-only (629.91 � 75.7 ?m, p=0.01) and Sham groups (761.22 � 92.8 ?m, p<0.001). at="" 6="" months="" there="" was="" no="" significant="" difference="" in="" corneal="" thickness="" when="" compared="" to="" baseline="" in="" the="" pvek="" group="" (p="">0.05), whereas the scaffold-only and sham groups demonstrated significantly thicker corneas compared to baseline (p<0.05 for="" both).="" moreover,="" pvek="" implants="" showed="" high="" postoperative="" cell="" density,="" with="" endothelial="" cell="" counts="" of="" 2110="" �="" 171,="" 1894="" �="" 181="" and="" 1793="" �="" 160="" cells/mm�="" at="" 1,="" 3="" and="" 6="" months="">

Conclusion
This randomized study demonstrates that PVEK results in clear and compact corneas with high postoperative cell counts in a rabbit. This novel approach may offer a promising solution to address the global shortage of corneal tissue worldwide. First in human trial is anticipated in 2025.

Intraoperative As-OCT Guided Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (Chen)

Authors

Presenting Author
Allison J Chen, MD, MPH, ABO
Co-Authors
Li Wang PhD, MD, Douglas Koch MD, Mitchell Weikert MD, MS

Paper Abstract

Purpose
To evaluate the impact of intraoperative anterior segment OCT (AS-OCT) on manual deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK).

Methods
All consecutive eyes undergoing manual deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty with intraoperative AS-OCT were included. All surgeries were performed for partial thickness corneal scars with variable depths, and manual DALK surgical techniques included grip and rip, manual stromal dissection via a lamellar dissector, or a combination of both. Full-length surgical videos were reviewed to assess 1) the frequency and success rate of additional stromal dissection and removal based on intraoperative AS-OCT and 2) the frequency of microperforation and ability to complete the manual DALK successfully.

Results
Seven eyes undergoing manual DALK with intraoperative AS-OCT were included. Three eyes underwent "grip and rip" technique, three eyes underwent manual stromal dissection via a lamellar dissector, and one eye underwent a combination of both. Intraoperatively, 57% (4/7) of eyes underwent additional stromal lamellar dissection and removal based on intraoperative AS-OCT imaging. Two eyes had small paracentral microperforation during dissection which self-sealed as the remainder of the stromal dissection avoided those areas. All eyes underwent successfully completion of the manual DALK procedure without conversion to full thickness penetrating keratoplasty.

Conclusion
Manual DALK can be completed with high success rate with intraoperative AS-OCT. This intraoperative modality can allow safe, tailored removal of stromal tissue and can be an asset to corneal surgeons.

Therapeutic Keratopigmentation: Cosmetic and Functional Outcomes and Complications (Hashemian)

Authors

Presenting Author
Seyed Javad Hashemian, MD

Paper Abstract

Purpose
To assess safety and efficacy of femtosecond laser assisted keratopigmaentation (FIK) and superficial automated keratopigmentation (SAK) using micronized mineral pigments.

Methods
KTP was performed in 85 eyes of 85 patients with moderate to severe visual disabilities related to various etiologies causing corneal scar or iris abnormalities. 36 eyes were treated by FIK, 46 eyes by SAK and 3 eyes using combined SAK + FIK. The cosmetic outcome, patient satisfaction, stability of pigmentation, and presence of any related complications are reported. The mean follow-up period was 13.06 � 9.9 months (range: 6-53 months).

Results
48 males and 37 females were included. The mean age was 37.8 � 14.25. In total, 68 of 85 patients (80%) reported cosmetic satisfaction within the follow-up period. 73.9% of SAK group, 86% of FIK group and 100% of combined SAK + FIK group were satisfied with their cosmetic outcome. 12 eyes of SAK (26%) and 5 eyes of FIK group (13.8%) required additional KTP procedure due to color fading and cosmetic unsatisfaction. Post-operative symptoms were photophobia (28.2%), tearing (23.5%) and pain (8.2%). Post-operative complications were dry eye (5.8%), delayed epithelial healing (2.3%) and microbial keratitis (1.1%).

Conclusion
FIK and SAK using micronized mineral pigments are safe and efficient surgical techniques for management of cosmetic and visual disturbances caused by iris abnormalities and cosmetic issues related to corneal scars.

Reduced Guttae:Cells Area Ratio in Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy (FECD) after Treatment with Magnetic Endothelial Cell Therapy. (Koo)

Authors

Presenting Author
Ellen H. Koo, MD, ABO
Co-Authors
William Culbertson MD, Allen Eghrari MPH, MD, Andrea Santiago Leon MD, Sarah Pajek MA, BSc

Paper Abstract

Purpose
To report the effect of magnetic human corneal endothelial cells (EO2002) on guttae via Guttae:Cells area ratio analysis in FECD subjects.

Methods
A total of 42 subjects were dosed with a single EO2002 intracameral injection. An external magnetic eye patch after cell injection was used in all subjects. Four doses (50K, 150K, 500K, 1M cells) were tested. Ten FECD subjects with high-quality specular imaging captured at 1 month and 5 at 6 months were included. Specular Images were analyzed using Photoshop color selection and area measurement tools. Each image was analyzed using color range selection, with the darkest point chosen as the area void of cells. Dark-to-light analysis was used to derive Guttae:Cells ratio. Two masked graders performed the image analysis. Paired t-test with 95% confidence interval was used for data analysis.

Results
The mean baseline Guttae:Cells area ratio of all subjects was 0.946�1.09. The mean Guttae:Cells area ratio analysis at last available visit was 0.477�0.466. Seven out of 10 subjects showed statistically significant decrease in Guttae:cells area ratio (p=0.0350).

Conclusion
A single dose of EO2002 magnetic endothelial cell therapy leads to a significant reduction in Guttae:Cells area. The reduction in Guttae: Cells area by the injection of EO2002 demonstrates the potential of this therapeutic approach to modify the pathogenesis of guttae formation as well as guttae alteration in FECD patients.

One Step Intraoperative OCT Guided Tunnel, Mushroom Femtosecond Laser Big Bubble DALK (Abusayf)

Authors

Presenting Author
Mohammed M Abusayf, MBBS
Co-Authors
Jodhbir Mehta PhD, MBBS, FRCSEd, Yu-Chi Liu MD, Andri Riau PhD, Evelina Han BSc, Isabelle Lee BSc

Paper Abstract

Purpose
The aim of our study is to investigate the feasibility and outcomes of using a femtosecond laser (FSL) platform (Ziemer LDV Z8) for deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK), enabling the creation of mushroom-shaped graft�host junctions, lamellar cuts, and intrastromal tunnels, to facilitate the big bubble, in one step.

Methods
We included wet lab experiments on nine porcine eyes to assess the laser accuracy and cuts depth using an anterior segment (AS) OCT. This was followed by an interventional prospective case series on 10 eyes with variant corneal pathologies. The Z8 system, with in-built intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT), guided corneal scans and directed the cuts.

Results
ASOCT showed visible mushroom configurations, lamellar cuts, and tunnels. Deviations from the target were 1.6%, 2.6%, and 3.5%. Anterior lamellar removal was easy in all clinical cases, including corneal scarring. The intrastromal tunnel was found at the preset location and the mushroom configuration was acquired. A big bubble was achieved in all cases. Type 1, 2, and 3 bubbles were formed in eight, one, and one case, respectively.

Conclusion
We describe a new approach to DALK in which the in-built iOCT-guided FSL enables safe, precise, controlled, and reproducible desired cuts in one step. The preliminary clinical outcomes were favorable.

Gaza: An Eye Banking Model for Resource-Poor Settings (Saeed)

Authors

Presenting Author
Hajirah N. Saeed, MD, MPH, ABO
Co-Authors
Peter Veldman MD, Cherie Fathy MD, Sila Bal MPH, MD, Abdelrahman Elhusseiny MD, James Auran MD, James Chodosh MPH, MD, Husam Dawud MD, Mohammed Almanassra MD

Paper Abstract

Purpose
Corneal tissue for transplantation is in shortage across the globe. Eye banking programs (EBPs) are difficult to establish in resource-poor regions. Gaza initiated an EBP in August 2022 and we seek to evaluate their EBP as a model for eye banking in resource-poor regions. We also assess the effect of the ongoing war on the viability of such an EBP.

Methods
In this descriptive, observational study, data regarding eye banking and corneal transplantation between August 2022 and June 2024 were reviewed. Of note, data collection in an active conflict zone has several barriers. Many data storage devices were destroyed, and we report on data available to the senior author as director of the Gaza Eye Hospital (GEH), where historically all cornea transplantation in Gaza has occurred.

Results
Between 08/2022 and 06/2024, ~330 corneal transplantations (CTs) were performed. Ophthalmology residents were trained in tissue procurement and 100% of cornea tissue was procured directly by them from the morgue. After ruling out infection, tissue was stored in Optisol. Mean time from procurement to surgery was 3 days. Indications included VA< 20/200 and keratoconus, corneal scar, bullous keratopathy, or corneal dystrophy. All cases of CT were penetrating keratoplasty (PK) and occurred between 08/2022 and 10/2023. There were 0 cases of infection, 3 cases of early graft failure (1%, mean follow-up 7 months). Between 10/2023 and 06/2024, no CT was performed; all elective surgeries were halted.

Conclusion
Gaza may serve as a model for cornea tissue procurement and transplantation for corneal blindness in resource-poor settings. Tissue for PK does not require a formal eye bank and PK can be successfully performed in cases of significant visual compromise. War significantly affects the ability to procure tissue and perform corneal transplantation.

Results of Lamellar Keratoplasty in Children with Congenital Corneal Dermoids (Bessen)

Authors

Presenting Author
Brandon Bessen, BSc
Co-Authors
Gerald Zaidman MD, Jijo Wang MD

Paper Abstract

Purpose
We will present the results of using lamellar keratoplasty in the treatment of infants and children with corneal dermoids.

Methods
A retrospective study of children under the age of 18 who received a lamellar keratoplasty for corneal dermoids was conducted. We analyzed their postoperative vision, refraction, graft clarity, and cosmetic impact. Visual acuity (VA) was measured in any individual who was at least 2 years old at the time of surgery.

Results
26 patients qualified for the study; 12 were infants and 14 were over 2.5 years old. Average follow-up was 5.07 years after surgery. In the older group of patients, 4 (29%) had improvement in their vision, 7 (50%) had no change, and 3 (21%) had a decrease in their VA. The graft was clear in 81% of patients and had mild haze in 19%. This haze was appreciated on slit lamp exam and had minimal cosmetic impact. Amblyopia was present postoperatively in 5 of 26 (19%) patients. Large astigmatic errors were present postoperatively in 10 of 26 (38%) eyes. There were no failed grafts.

Conclusion
Though some patients heal with astigmatism or amblyopia, our study demonstrates that lamellar keratoplasty as a treatment of limbal dermoids offers excellent cosmetic results with generally strong visual results.

Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty for Failed Penetrating Keratoplasty: Clinical Outcomes and Challenges (Bulut Ustael)

Authors

Presenting Author
Ay�a Bulut Ustael, MD
Co-Authors
Feyza Isik MD, Emine Esra Karaca MD, Dilara Altun MD, Ozlem Evren Kemer MD

Paper Abstract

Purpose
The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of undersized Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) in managing endothelial failure following penetrating keratoplasty (PKP).

Methods
This retrospective study analyzed 18 eyes of 18 patients who underwent undersized DMEK for failed PKP between November 2020 and June 2023. The primary outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central corneal thickness (CCT), re-bubbling rate, and graft survival. Secondary outcomes included endothelial cell density (ECD) and postoperative complications.

Results
The mean follow-up was 13.9 � 4.6 months. There was a statistically significant improvement in BCVA, with a mean of 1.12 � 0.60 logMAR preoperatively and 0.64 � 0.49 logMAR at six months postoperatively (p = 0.013). Mean CCT decreased from 807 � 224 ?m preoperatively to 573 � 151 ?m at six months (p = 0.003). Re-bubbling was necessary in 8 eyes (44.4%) after a median of 7 days. The 12-month graft survival rate was 66.7%. Immunological graft rejection occurred in 5 cases (27.8%). Mean donor ECD decreased from 2580 � 254 cells/mm� preoperatively to 1036 � 657 cells/mm� at the final follow-up.

Conclusion
Undersized DMEK following failed PKP demonstrates significant improvements in visual acuity and corneal thickness. This group faces big challenges due to high rates of re-bubbling and rejection.

Mitomycin Intravascular Chemoembolization for the Treatment of Corneal Neovascularization: Outcomes in High-Risk Patients Prior to PK (Altun)

Authors

Presenting Author
Dilara Altun, MD
Co-Authors
Emine Esra Karaca MD, Ozlem Evren Kemer MD

Paper Abstract

Purpose
The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of mitomycin intravascular chemoembolization (MICE) in the treatment of corneal neovascularization (CNV) in high-risk patients waiting penetrating keratoplasty(PK)

Methods
This prospective study included 11 patients with CNV considered for PK.Mitomycin-C (MMC) at a concentration of 0.4 mg/mL was administered using a 32-gauge needle targeting the largest vessel immediately adjacent to the corneal limbus.The MMC was injected in volumes ranging from 0.01 to 0.05 mL to ensure retrograde hydrostatic filling of both efferent and afferent vessels.Patients were monitored on postoperative day 1, month 1,and month 3.CNV was assessed at each visit based on location and density.The extent of CNV was quantified as a percentage of the total corneal area using ImageJ software.A p-value of <0.05 was="" considered="" statistically="" significant="" for="" all="">

Results
The study comprised 10 male and 1 female patient.Nine patients exhibited CNV secondary to graft rejection, while two patients had herpetic keratitis-related CNV. Significant regression of CNV was observed in all patients following MICE treatment. The mean vascularized area decreased from 4.77 � 2.75% pre-MICE to 1.92 � 1.51% post-MICE (p < 0.05).="" during="" the="" follow-up="" period,="" patients="" who="" were="" candidates="" for="" penetrating="" keratoplasty="" demonstrated="" marked="" improvement="" in="" corneal="" condition.="" additionally,="" a="" significant="" reduction="" in="" conjunctival="" hyperemia="" was="" noted.="" penetrating="" keratoplasty="" was="" performed="" in="" 18%="" of="" patients="" post-mice,="" with="" case="" developing="" corneal="" melting="" />

Conclusion
MICE presents a potential therapeutic option for reducing CNV in high-risk patients,particularly those with a history of graft rejection.The use of ImageJ to measure CNV provides an objective and verifiable means of assessment.Although literature supports the safety of this method,long-term data on the safety of MICE administration are needed.

Outcomes of Femtosecond Laser Guided Tunnel Assisted Big Bubble DALK (Singh)

Authors

Presenting Author
Bhupesh Singh, DOMS
Co-Authors
Neha Bharti DNB

Paper Abstract

Purpose
TO know the safety and efficacy of femtosecond laser guided tunnel in achieving Big Bubble during DALK

Methods
20 Eyes of 20 patient underwent this procedure on ZIEMER laser platform. Result were evaluated for success in achieving Big bubble.

Results
Big Bubble was achieved in all cases of using this device.

Conclusion
This is a safe and effective way to achieve Big bubble in DALK

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