The use of precut, γ-irradiated corneal lenticules in Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis implantation.
OBJECTIVE
To report the use of a sterile, γ-irradiated corneal tissue without viable endothelium (VisionGraft Sterile Cornea; Tissue Banks International) in lieu of fresh donor cornea in Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis (KPro) implantation.


METHODS
Retrospective, interventional small case series.


METHODS
Eleven eyes of 11 patients underwent Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis implantation using VisionGraft Sterile Cornea between April 2009 and October 2010. Precut donut-shaped corneal lenticules, using femtosecond laser, measuring 8.5 mm in diameter with a 3-mm central hole were used.


RESULTS
Surgical procedures were uneventful. Complete corneal re-epithelization was noted within 10 days in all cases. No complications related to the donor cornea (eg, stromal necrosis, wound leak, or device extrusion) occurred over an average follow-up of 16.5 months.


CONCLUSIONS
VisionGraft Sterile Cornea eliminates the need for use of fresh donor corneal tissue for Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis procedures, which makes this procedure a viable sight-restoring option when donor corneal tissues are not readily available.
The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21287-9238, USA. esakpek@jhmi.edu
Esen K
EK
Akpek
Anthony J
AJ
Aldave
James V
JV
Aquavella
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001187:Artificial Organs; D002648:Child; D003315:Cornea / Q000528:radiation effects*; D003316:Corneal Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005720:Gamma Rays; D006801:Humans; D015948:Keratoplasty, Penetrating; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013242:Sterilization / Q000379:methods; D014792:Visual Acuity / Q000502:physiology