Amniotic Membrane Transplantation for Perforation and Impending Perforation of Cornea: Four Cases

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To report successfully cured four cases of amniotic membrane transplantation(AMT) as a primary procedure in the cornea that was perforated or impending perforation. METHODS: We performed AMT on 1 case of corneal perforation due to chemical burn, 1 case of perforated descemetocele, 1 case of perforated corneal ulcer due to metallic foreign body and 1 case of impending corneal perforation due to recurrent keratitis. Three or four layers of amniotic membrane(AM) that preserved under -70degrees C were applied over the perforation site and anchored with 10-0 nylon interrupted or running sutures. In one case, a large AM piece was used as a temporary patch. After surgery, all cases were treated with systemic antibiotics, antibiotic eyedrops, and topical corticosteroids. RESULTS: Amniotic membrane transplantation was successful in sealing the perforation in all cases. All corneas remained stable and visual acuity improved. There was no infection or rejection postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Multilayer amniotic membrane transplantation allowed a successful repair of corneal perforations. This method may be a good alternative to patch graft or penetrating keratoplasty for treating corneal perforations.