Analysis of Factors Affecting the Decrease of Endothelial Cell Density in Imported Donor Corneas

PURPOSE: To evaluate the difference between corneal endothelial cell density at the moment of preservation and at keratoplasty in imported donor corneas and to analyze the correlated factors of the difference. METHODS: Eighty-seven imported corneas were evaluated. Corneal endothelial cell density at the moment of preservation was obtained from the medical record and was measured just before the keratoplasty. Correlation of the difference in endothelial cell density with the following factors were analyzed; donor sex, donor age, death-to-preservation time, preservation-to-surgery time, death-to-surgery time, endothelial cell density at the moment of preservation, and preservation period of the corneas. RESULTS: All of the corneas showed a decrease in endothelial cell density. Mean endothelial cell density of imported donor corneas at the moment of preservation and at keratoplasty was 2789 +/- 235 cells/mm2 and 2592 +/- 254 cells/mm2 (p < 0.001), respectively. Mean endothelial cell loss was 197 +/- 148 cells/mm2, which was significantly correlated with preservation-to-surgery time, death-to-surgery time and a preservation period longer than 7 days (p = 0.042, p = 0.045, p = 0.036, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Reduced death-to-surgery time and keratoplasty before 7 days of preservation are needed for better surgical outcome.

The Effects of Prostaglandin Analogues on the Corneal Thickness

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of prostaglandin analogues on the corneal thickness of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) or normal tension glaucoma (NTG). METHODS: This study included 130 eyes of 65 patients who were diagnosed with POAG or NTG. All patients were divided into two groups; one group received prostaglandin analogues, while the other group received alternative ocular hypotensive eyedrops. Corneal thickness, best corrected visual acuity, and flare in the anterior chamber were measured and compared before treatment and at least 24 months (mean: 27 months) after treatment. RESULTS: The mean decrease in corneal thickness was statistically significant in the group using prostaglandin analogues, but not in the control group. Among the various prostaglandin analogues used, travoprost and latanoprost decreased mean corneal thickness, but bimatoprost had no effect. Best corrected visual acuity, refraction power, and flare in the anterior chamber did not change significantly in either group of patients when ocular hypotensive eyedrops were used. CONCLUSIONS: Prostaglandin analogues lower intraocular pressure and decrease corneal thickness if used over a 24 months.