Retrospective analysis of OCT parameters after intravitreal anti-VEGF inhibitors in neovascular AMD patients in a real-world setting.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate changes of best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFL), total macular volume (TMV), intraocular pressure (IOP) and central retinal thickness (CRT) after intravitreal injection of ranibizumab, bevacizumab and aflibercept in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in a clinical real world setting. METHODS: In a retrospective clinical study design, 120 patients (80 women and 40 men) were analyzed after being diagnosed with nAMD within 8 years (2010-2018). Every patient received at least 6 anti-VEGF injections in a Pro-Re-Nata or Treat-and-Extend regimen. OCT parameters (RNFL, TMV, CRT) and visual acuity (BCVA) were assessed at first diagnosis, at treatment day and during the course. RESULTS: Intraretinal fluid was reduced significantly in a magnitude of 88-64 µm (CRT) and 0.75-0.55 mm3 (TMV). Apart from a significant reduction immediately after the therapy start (post-3 injections) with ranibizumab (- 1.4 µm, p = 0.03), RNFL thickness remained constant. A slight improvement in visual acuity of 0.06 logMAR could initially be observed. If further injections were required, only stabilization was achieved compared to baseline visual acuity. CONCLUSION: The changes of OCT parameters CRT, TMV, and RNFL as well as the stabilization of functional results (BCVA) as illustrated in this study comparing effects of different anti-VEGF-agents provide evidence for the transferability of former results to a clinical real-world setting.

[Preconditioning of vascularized high-risk eyes using fine-needle diathermy and cross-linking]. / Präkonditionierung von vaskularisierten Hochrisikoaugen mittels Feinnadeldiathermie und Crosslinking.

BACKGROUND: The risk of allograft rejection following high-risk keratoplasty increases with the area of corneal neovascularization. Pharmaceutical and physical regression of corneal neovascularization before keratoplasty may offer the potential to reduce the risk of graft rejection after high-risk keratoplasty. OBJECTIVE: This article provides a review of the literature on the preconditioning of vascularized high-risk eyes using fine-needle diathermy and corneal cross-linking (preoperative preconditioning by lymphangioregression). METHODS: A literature search was carried out in PubMed and a summary of own data is presented. RESULTS: Animal experimental studies showed that both fine-needle diathermy and corneal cross-linking lead to a regression of corneal neovascularization and prolong graft survival after high-risk keratoplasty. Furthermore, studies from our institute provide first evidence that both procedures also lead to a reduction of corneal neovascularization in the clinical practice and thus potentially reduce the risk of allograft rejection after subsequent high-risk keratoplasty. DISCUSSION: Fine-needle diathermy and corneal cross-linking provide effective therapeutic approaches for angioregressive treatment and seem to prolong graft survival following high-risk keratoplasty. Larger prospective and controlled clinical trials are needed to further investigate these promising therapeutic approaches.

[Treatment of vascularized high-risk eyes with a Boston keratoprosthesis]. / Versorgung von vaskularisierten Hochrisikoaugen mittels Boston-Keratoprothese.

BACKGROUND: In severely compromised and vascularized high-risk eyes, the Boston keratoprosthesis procedure is often the last treatment option. The transparency of the optics is not impaired by endothelial immune reactions. METHODS: This review article discusses relevant literature as well as our own data and experiences with the Boston keratoprosthesis in high-risk eyes. The relevant complications as well as the postoperative management are discussed. RESULTS: In more than 60% of the high-risk eyes a long-term increase in visual acuity can be achieved. Keratoprosthesis retention rates show a variable span with reported mean 5­year retention rates of 75%. The most common postoperative complications include the formation of a retroprosthetic membrane and keratolysis in up to 50% each. More than 70% of the eyes already suffer from (secondary) glaucoma preoperatively, so that glaucoma surgery is performed simultaneously in at least 20% of cases and in the postoperative course further antiglaucomatous surgery is necessary in up to 31%. Vitreoretinal complications include, in particular, sterile vitritis and infectious endophthalmitis but persistent hypotonia is also described in one third of patients. CONCLUSION: The Boston keratoprosthesis is an alternative to conventional corneal replacement if the prognosis for allogeneic transplants is poor. Postoperative complications are common; therefore, postoperative management plays an important role. For vascularized high-risk eyes, however, it is often the only remaining option for visual rehabilitation.

[Proliferative vitreoretinopathy prophylaxis : Mission (im)possible]. / Proliferative Vitreoretinopathieprophylaxe : Mission (im)possible.

BACKGROUND: Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is one of the most important complications following vitreoretinal surgery. So far, surgical strategies have been the gold standard in treatment. Pharmacological approaches for prevention and treatment of PVR are under clinical investigation and intervene in different phases of the PVR cascade. METHODS: The relevant literature as well as own data and experience with PVR are discussed in this review article. The most important aspects of pharmacological approaches for PVR prophylaxis and treatment are explained. RESULTS: A prophylactic use of systemic prednisone administration as an anti-inflammatory substance showed contradictory results, while there was no additional benefit for intravitreal triamcinolone. Orally administered isotretinoin also seems to be able to minimize the formation of PVR after retinal reattachment surgery, whereas there was no improvement in the success rate in established PVR. Cell proliferation inhibitors have already been extensively studied. The combined intravitreal prophylactic approach of 5­fluorouracil and low molecular weight heparin was recently further investigated in a multicenter, placebo-controlled study and showed a positive effect in some studies. New preclinical and experimental approaches include the inhibition of growth factors, modulation of integrin activity and the induction of apoptosis. CONCLUSION: Most clinical studies dealt with an anti-inflammatory or antiproliferative approach. So far, no pharmacological substance has been established for the treatment of PVR but there are promising approaches for prophylaxis.

[Intraocular lens explantation and retroiridal iris claw lens implantation via the pars plana : Video article]. / Intraokularlinsenbergung und retroiridale Irisklauenlinsenimplantation über die Pars plana : Videobeitrag.

OBJECTIVE OF SURGERY: The aim is the explantation of an intraocular lens (IOL) due to dislocation into the vitreous cavity with subsequent secondary implantation of a retropupillary iris claw IOL via the pars plana without creating a large corneal incision. The aim of the operative technique is to avoid corneal astigmatism after secondary IOL implantation, faster recovery of visual acuity and reduction of invasive maneuvers in the anterior chamber. INDICATIONS: The surgery is indicated by an in-the-bag dislocation of a posterior chamber lens into the vitreous cavity without the possibility of refixation due to zonulopathy. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Contraindications are extensive iris stromal defects, iritis, scleromalacia, ischemic retinopathies. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: The technique consists of explantation of the IOL during a standard pars plana vitrectomy (20 gauge) with an extended sclerotomy and subsequent secondary implantation of a retropupillary iris claw IOL using the same sclerotomy. The operation video is available online. FOLLOW-UP: Treatment is carried out with local steroids and antibiotic eyedrops for 3 weeks. In the case of a corneal suture, removal is recommended after 14 days. EVIDENCE: The implantation of a retroiridal iris claw lens is an established procedure. The introduction via the pars plana in the presented form is a first description.

[Partial retinal fenestration for optic disc pit maculopathy]. / Partielle Retinafensterung bei Grubenpapillenmakulopathie.

The frequent side effect of maculopathy in the optic disc pit seems to be based on a pathogenetically incompletely comprehended fluid exchange between the optic disc and the macula. A surgical procedure using vitrectomy with the creation of a barrier between the macula and the optic disc pit, for example using an endolaser or a scleral flap, is possible. In addition, the partial retinal fenestration as described here in detail represents an alternative surgical procedure resulting in liquid being conducted from the optic disc pit into the vitreous cavity. Complete absorption of the subretinal and intraretinal fluid can be expected within the first postoperative year.

[10 years of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty in Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy : What have we learned?] / Zehn Jahre "Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty" bei Fuchs-Dystrophie : Was haben wir gelernt?

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) has increased in popularity since its introduction over 10 years ago. This article presents a summary of the experiences of the past years collected at the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Cologne. METHODS: A literature review of DMEK studies primarily from the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Cologne, Germany was carried out. Own experiences in the fields of donor selection and graft preparation, DMEK surgery, complication management and postoperative treatment are summarized. RESULTS: Since the introduction of DMEK experience has been gained and ongoing improvements have occurred ranging from donor-recipient allocation to postoperative follow-up. These led to a better reproducibility of the intervention for the surgeon, to a better postoperative result and to a reduction of the complication rate. DISCUSSION: The DMEK represents a safe and individualized procedure for endothelial transplantation for corneal endothelial dysfunction. Continuing development of the method leads to optimization and safer results.

[Boston type I keratoprosthesis implantation technique : Video article]. / Technik der Boston-Typ-I-Keratoprothesen-Implantation : Videobeitrag.

BACKGROUND: Keratoprosthetics refer to the replacement of human corneal tissue with an artificially produced exchange product. The most widely implanted keratoprosthesis worldwide is the Boston Type I Keratoprosthesis (BI-KPro, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA, USA). METHODS: This video article demonstrates the surgical technique of BI-KPro implantation as routinely performed at this institution. In addition, an overview of the surgical indications, patient consent, anesthesia and positioning, postoperative treatment and complications as well as the evidence of the technique is provided in the article based on experience with 31 BI-KPro implantations. RESULTS: The indications for BI-KPro primarily include patients in a high-risk keratoplasty setting particularly after repeatedly failed keratoplasty. A thorough patient examination and assessment of the indications as well as detailed disclosure of information to the patient about the individual prognosis, the risk profile, the postoperative therapy and follow-up enable a positive postoperative result. CONCLUSION: The BI-KPro provides an established and relatively standardized option for surgical treatment of eyes in a high-risk keratoplasty setting. Patients should be preoperatively informed with respect to the individual prognosis, complication profile and life-long follow-up.

[Laser flare photometry for identification of high-risk patients for proliferative vitreoretinopathy]. / Laser Flare Photometrie zur Identifizierung von Hochrisikopatienten für proliferative Vitreoretinopathie.

Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is a complication of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and trauma, which occurs in approximately 10% following vitreoretinal surgery. The visual prognosis for established PVR is poor and so far there is no established conservative treatment for PVR. In the currently recruiting PRIVENT trial the aim is to find a prophylactic treatment possibility for PVR. The PRIVENT study examines the influence of intraoperative adjuvant pharmacotherapy on reducing the incidence of PVR; however, this requires the identification of eyes with increased risk for PVR. Laser flare photometry is a simple method to predict the individual risk for PVR. It is a non-invasive technique that objectifies the Tyndall effect. Various laser flare meter devices are available on the market. In previous studies it could be shown that laser flare photometry can predict the development of PVR in eyes with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with a sensitivity of 80%. The identification of these high-risk eyes for PVR could be the first step towards solving the problem of PVR.

Bruch's membrane opening-based optical coherence tomography of the optic nerve head: a useful diagnostic tool to detect glaucoma in macrodiscs.

PurposeTo compare Bruch's membrane opening (BMO)-based spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and margin based confocal scanning laser tomography (CSLT) of the optic nerve head (ONH) to visual field function in large optic discs (macrodiscs) and to assess performance for glaucoma detection.MethodsIn a case-control, cross-sectional study, 125 eyes of 125 patients with disc size >2.45 mm2, thereof 44 glaucoma and 11 ocular hypertension (OHT) patients and 70 healthy controls underwent SD-OCT and CSLT examination, visual field testing and clinical evaluation. Mean outcome measures BMO-based minimum rim width (BMO-MRW), retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT) in SD-OCT, and rim area measured in CSLT were compared and correlated to visual field function.ResultsAll participants had a mean disc area of 2.91±0.38 mm2 in CSLT and a BMO area of 2.45±0.39 mm2 (r=0.76;P<0.001). In glaucoma patients, visual field mean deviation was -10.0±6.1 dB. Global BMO-MRW correlated better to visual field function (Spearman's Rho (ρ)=0.71; P<0.001) than RNFLT (ρ=0.52;P<0.001) and CSLT rim area (ρ=0.63; P<0.001). BMO-MRW was significantly decreased with higher visual field loss (P<0.001). In ROC analysis, diagnostic power to differentiate glaucoma patients and healthy controls was highest for BMO-MRW (Area under curve, AUC=0.96; sensitivity at 95% specificity=82%). Rim area in CSLT (AUC=0.91; sensitivity=61.0%; P=0.04) and RNFLT (AUC=0.89; sensitivity=61%; P=0.01) were significantly less powerful.ConclusionsIn macrodiscs, BMO-MRW has the best diagnostic power to discriminate glaucoma patients from normal controls compared to RNFLT and rim area in CSLT. Additionally, BMO-MRW seems to reflect the structure-function relationship better than the other two parameters.

[CyberKnife®: new treatment option for uveal melanoma]. / CyberKnife®: Eine neue Therapieoption bei uvealem Melanom.

BACKGROUND: CyberKnife® stereotactic radiosurgery is a new treatment option for uveal melanoma. OBJECTIVE: This review outlines the technique of robot-assisted CyberKnife® therapy, as well as the pros and cons in the treatment of uveal melanoma. METHODS: The study provides a PubMed literature review and own preliminary clinical experiences. RESULTS: CyberKnife® therapy for choroidal and ciliary body melanomas shows comparable results concerning local tumor control and overall survival matching those of conventional therapies. With only low complication rates, a high level of quality of life can be conserved by possible preservation of visual acuity as well as the ocular globe. CONCLUSION: Stereotactic radiosurgery using CyberKnife® seems to be an efficient and safe therapeutic option for malignant melanomas affecting the choroid and ciliary body. Comparative studies with conventional radiation strategies are now a high priority.

[Indications for Retinal Laser Therapy Revisited]. / Wann wird heute noch gelasert?

BACKGROUND: Laser therapy is an important treatment option in retinal diseases, especially in cases of vascular involvement. Most approaches are based on coagulation of retinal structures. As there is increasing use of agents targetting vascular endothelial growth factor in the treatment of macular diseases, indications for the use of laser treatment need to be reviewed carefully, especially with respect to their significance in first line therapy. This article explains recent strategies and treatment protocols. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Review of current literature in PubMed as well as synopsis of relevant guidelines. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Retinal laser therapy is still widely used within retinal opthalmology and covers a large spectrum of indications. Despite the success of medical approaches, retinal laser therapy remains an indispensable treatment option for proliferative diabetic retinopathy, central or peripheral vein occlusion and less frequent pathologies, such as retinopathy of prematurity or Coats's disease.

[Boston keratoprosthesis: 73 eyes from Germany : An overview of experiences from two centers]. / Boston-Keratoprothese: 73 Augen aus Deutschland : Übersicht der Erfahrungen aus zwei Zentren.

BACKGROUND: The Boston Keratoprosthesis (B-KPro) is a therapeutic option for corneal replacement for visual rehabilitation in eyes with poor a prognosis for penetrating keratoplasty (high-risk eyes). Since 2009, this approach has been used in the MVZ Prof. Neuhann, Munich, and since 2013 also at the Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne. An overview of results from the first 73 eyes in these departments is presented. METHODS: All recipient eyes of both centers which received a B-KPro type I (BI-KPro) between November 2009 and March 2017 were included. Indications, preoperative findings, intraoperative procedures, and clinical results, as well as postoperative complication and retention rates were documented and analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 73 eyes from 68 patients (mean age 55 ± 21.1 years, range 7 months-93 years; 26 women, 42 men) were treated with a BI-KPro. In 53 eyes (72.6%) the BI-KPro was implanted due to corneal graft failure, whereas BI-KPro was used as the primary corneal replacement in 20 eyes (27.4%). In 46 eyes (63.0%) a long-term increase in visual acuity was achieved and in 21.9% visual acuity was stabilized, while a decrease in preoperative visual acuity occurred in 15.1% of cases. During an average follow-up of 24.7 ± 23.0 months (range 1-78 months), 1.7 ± 2.4 re-interventions (range 0-9) were required. Only 4 keratoprostheses (5.5%) could not be retained. In 3 eyes (4.2%), a change of the BI-KPro device was necessary. CONCLUSION: There is a wide range of indications for BI-KPro in eyes with a poor prognosis for conventional keratoplasty. The surgical technique is safe but with a notable postoperative complication rate, which does not seem to decrease in the medium or long term. The retention rate is excellent for eyes without stem cell deficiency. Nevertheless, the BI-KPro is the only therapeutic option for high-risk eyes and leads to a gain in visual acuity in most cases.

[Ophthalmological health care of the institutionalized elderly : The OVIS study]. / Ophthalmologische Versorgung in Seniorenheimen : Die OVIS-Studie.

BACKGROUND: Due to demographic change and societal transformation the number of elderly persons living in retirement homes is growing in Germany. Access to health care is more complicated in the setting of nursing homes. Different regional studies suggest unmet ophthalmological health care needs in institutionalized elderly people. This study assessed the current ophthalmological health care structure and supply status in nursing homes in Germany. METHODS: This prospective, multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted by 14 study centers in Germany. Elderly people living in 32 nursing homes were included after approval by the local institutional review boards. A standardized examination was performed which included a detailed medical and ocular history, refraction, visual acuity testing, tonometry, biomicroscopy and dilated funduscopy. Unmet ophthalmological health care needs were documented and the data were analyzed descriptively and via logistic regression modelling. RESULTS: A total of 600 participants (434 women and 166 men) aged 50-104 years were examined of which 368 (61%) had ophthalmological conditions requiring treatment. The most prevalent findings were cataracts (315; 53%), disorders of the eyelids (127; 21%), dry eye disease (57; 10%) and posterior capsule opacification (43; 7%). In 63 (11%) of the participants glaucoma was suspected and 55 (9%) of the examined population had a known diagnosis of glaucoma, of whom one third was not on any or on insufficient anti-glaucomatous therapy. 236 (39%) showed signs of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Only 52% of the examined cohort had been examined by an ophthalmologist within the last 5 years and 39% stated that they would currently not be able to consult an ophthalmologist. Reported barriers were mainly transport and lack of support. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates considerable unmet ophthalmological health care needs of the institutionalized elderly in Germany. Novel and reformed models of specialist care provision have to be developed.

[Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty : Experiences and results of the first 100 consecutive DALK from the University Eye Hospital of Cologne]. / Tiefe anteriore lamelläre Keratoplastik : Erfahrungen und Ergebnisse der ersten 100 konsekutiven DALK aus der Kölner Universitätsaugenklinik.

BACKGROUND: Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) is a treatment option for patients with diseases of the corneal stroma without endothelial involvement and has been used at the Department of Ophthalmology of the University of Cologne since July 2011. Experiences and results of the first 100 consecutive cases from Cologne with a minimum follow-up of 1 year are summarized. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We included the first 100 consecutive DALKs. Indications for anterior lamellar keratoplasty, the feasibility of the surgery, the postoperative course, in addition to the complications and clinical outcome 3 months after complete suture removal, were examined. The rate of conversion to penetrating keratoplasty in all planned DALKs during the observation period was also recorded. Mean follow-up was 25.6 ± 13 months. RESULTS: In 99 eyes of 97 patients (72 men, 25 women; aged 43.5 ± 16.9 years), the first 100 DALKs were performed in the period between 26 July 2011 and 27 January 2015 (87 cases electively, 13 cases as DALK à chaud, 1 of which was a second DALK). The most common indications were keratoconus (68%), corneal ulcers (13%), and corneal scarring (13%). On average, visual acuity increased from 0.83 ± 0.4 to 0.09 ± 0.1 logMAR. In 6 eyes (6%) grafts could not be preserved because of a corneal ulcer (n = 5, n = 3 of which were recurrent episodes), and in 1 case because of postoperative bulbus trauma. Rate of conversion to penetrating keratoplasty during the observation period was 11.5%. In eyes with keratoconus, visual acuity increased from 0.89 ± 0.4 before DALK to 0.06 ± 0.1 logMAR (best-corrected with contact lens) and the conversion rate was 17.6%. CONCLUSION: DALK represents a reliable technique for corneal transplantation in different pathological conditions of the cornea and the risk of endothelial immune responses can be avoided completely. In keratoconus and corneal scarring in particular, DALK can be used as a safe treatment option with very good results.

[Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy: Therapeutic Strategies]. / Proliferative Vitreoretinopathie: therapeutische Strategien.

BACKGROUND: Development of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is one of the most important complications of vitreoretinal surgery. Reaching the decision to treat and surgical treatment itself are both challenging. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Our own data and a review of the literature in PubMed are summarised. RESULTS: Pharmacological approaches to the prevention and treatment of proliferative vitreoretinopathy have been limited to concepts that have been investigated in preclinical and a few clinical studies. Anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative substances may be mentioned in this context. Surgical techniques range from scleral buckling to the gold standard pars plana vitrectomy, preferably with silicone oil endotamponade. Applying an encircling band, retinotomy or retinectomy can be useful in reattaching the tractional shortened retina. CONCLUSION: Surgery is still the method of choice for the treatment of PVR. Pharmacological strategies to prevent or treat PVR have not been established.

[Update Minimally Invasive Lamellar Keratoplasty: DMEK, DSAEK and DALK]. / Update minimalinvasive lamelläre Keratoplastik: DMEK, DSAEK und DALK.

BACKGROUND: The spectrum of operative interventions in corneal disorders requiring keratoplasty has been expanded considerably in recent years. In addition to the standard technique with full-thickness replacement of the cornea (perforating keratoplasty), lamellar techniques have been introduced. The aim of this review is to highlight current opportunities, indications and complications, as well as possible strategies to standardise lamellar keratoplasties. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Our own data and a review of the literature in PubMed are summarised. RESULTS: Performing "Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty" (DMEK), "Descemt Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty" (DSAEK) and "Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty" (DALK) can provide patients with disorders of the corneal endothelium or the anterior corneal stroma with minimally invasive corneal grafts at a reduced risk of complications. CONCLUSION: DMEK and DSAEK are now internationally the surgical methods of choice in patients with endothelial corneal pathologies, i.e. in Fuchs' Endothelial Dystrophy. The DALK technique for lamellar replacement of the anterior stroma, i.e. in keratoconus, needs further standardisation, so that DALK can in future be performed more often even in less specialised departments. Major advantages of lamellar keratoplasties are the very good results in visual outcome and fewer immune reactions or graft rejections. Even intraoperative complications are rare. In the long term, further strategies are desirable for the standardisation of lamellar keratoplasties and its establishment as the primary standard procedure.

[Corneal donation : Dilemma between growing demand and declining donor rate]. / Hornhautspende : Ein Dilemma zwischen wachsender Nachfrage und sinkender Spenderrate.

BACKGROUND: One of the most important requirements for successful corneal transplantation is the availability of donor tissue and thus the approval for postmortem corneal tissue donation. The aim of this study was to investigate donor willingness compared to the continuously increasing demand in recent years. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Archives of the local eye bank at the Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Germany in the time period between 1 July 2011 and 31 December 2015 were examined regarding the willingness for corneal donations in deceased patients from the University Hospital of Cologne. Absolute numbers of deceased, exclusion criteria for donation as well as the rate of negative and affirmative decisions were evaluated. RESULTS: In 235 (5.1 %) out of 4593 deceased at the University Hospital of Cologne, corneal donation was accomplished during the observation period. Of the patients 2923 (63.6 %) were excluded because of absolute contraindications for corneal donation and the rate of absolute contraindications increased from 46.6 % in 2011 to 68.9 % in 2015. Willingness for corneal donation in potentially suitable deceased patients diminished from 34.9 % in 2011, to 34.3 % in 2012, 35.5 % in 2013, 28.4 % in 2014 and to 24.1 % in 2015. In relation to the total number of deceased, the number of corneal tissue donations decreased from 11.5 % in 2011 to 3.5 % in 2015. CONCLUSION: Despite a rising demand, data from Cologne seem to indicate that the number of corneal donations has declined to some extent. In order to increase the number of corneal donors in the future, further educational work as well as standardization and optimization of the tissue donation process seem to be urgently needed.