[Microkeratome-assisted deep lamellar endothelial keratoplasty].
OBJECTIVE
To observe the indication, surgical principle, clinical results and complications of microkeratome-assisted deep lamellar endothelial keratoplasty (DLEK).


METHODS
DLEK was performed in six patients with bullous keratopathy. One of the six patients underwent DLEK combined with vitrectomy under temporary artificial corneal and intraocular foreign-body removal. Another underwent DLEK combined with vitrectomy and posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation. The patients were followed up for 6 approximately 9 months.


RESULTS
The postoperative best-corrected visual acuity showed clear improvement in 5 cases. Endothelial cell density averaged (2481 +/- 212) cells/mm(2). Pachymetry averaged (549 +/- 61) micro m. Astigmatism averaged (2.04 +/- 1.19) D. No serious complication was found.


CONCLUSIONS
DLEK is an alternative choice for PKP. It may offer further advantages over conventional PKP surgery, and could serve as a surgical technique in endothelial keratoplasty. A long-term follow-up in a larger patient population is needed to confirm our initial results.
Chen
Jia-Qi
JQ
Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China. syingfeng@163.net
Shao
Ying-Feng
YF
Wang
Zheng
Z
Zhou
Shi-You
SY
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003315:Cornea / Q000601:surgery; D016039:Corneal Transplantation / Q000379:methods*; D004728:Endothelium, Corneal / Q000378:metabolism / Q000637:transplantation*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014792:Visual Acuity