Outcome of Vitreoretinal Surgery and Penetrating Keratoplasty using Temporary Keratoprosthesis

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Using a temporary keratoprosthesis(TKP), earlier surgical treatment became amenable in eyes with coexisting vitreoretinal and corneal disease. We analysed our experience with this type of surgery. METHOD: Medical records of patients who had undergone pars plana vitrectomy(PPV) using Eckardt TKP from 1994 to 2000 were reviewed. Analysis was focused on preoperative conditions, surgical outcome and complications. RESULT: Of 34 eyes of consecutive 34 patients, 25(73.5%) showed trauma-related indications and 4 had IOFB. Retinal detachments were present in 24(70.6%) eyes, proliferative vitreoretinopathy in 8(23.5%) and vitreous hemorrhage in 10(29.4%) eyes. Penetrating keratoplasty(PKP) with donor corneas were performed in only 3 patients at the time of surgery and patient's excised corneas were sutured to 31 patients, 9 of whom underwent PKP later. After mean follow up period of 14 months, retinas remained attached in 27(79.4%) eyes and 3 eyes were phthisical. Visual acuity improved in 18(53%) eyes and worsened in 5 eyes. CONCLUSIONS: In cases with coexisting corneal and vitreoretinal pathology, PPV using TKP was effective for preserving vision and globe. Timing of grafting clear cornea might be delayed when donor cornea was not available.