[Indications for penetrating keratoplasty in Iran; 1994-2004]

ABSTRACT

To determine the indications for penetrating keratoplasty [PK] in Iran over an 11-year period. All eye bank records of patients who underwent PK from 1994 to 2004 at ophthalmologic centers throughout Iran were reviewed. During this 11-year period, a total of 19,668 cases were operated. The most common indication for penetrating keratoplasty was keratoconus [34.5%], followed by corneal opacity and scar [18.7%], pseudophakic bullous keratopathy [9.2%], corneal dystrophies [6.5%], aphakic bullous keratopahty [6.1%], and regraft [5.3%]. There was an increasing trend in rates of keratoconus and pseudophakic bullous keratopathy and a decreasing trend in aphakic bullous keratopathy during this period. [P<0.001] No significant change of trend was noted in the corneal opacity and scar, regraft, and corneal dystrophy groups. Keratoconus is the most common indication for penetrating keratoplasty in Iran