Preserving posterior capsular integrity in post-endothelial keratoplasty posterior capsular opacification.

Endothelial keratoplasty (EK) with pseudophakia often presents with late-onset proliferative after-cataract with posterior capsule distension. We performed a modified technique of capsular bag lavage in 11 eyes with late-onset PCO after EK (4 cases: post-DSAEK, 7 cases: post-DMEK). Anterior capsular rim was separated from the underlying IOL optic using MVR blade. Circumferential relaxing radial nicks were made on the capsular rim to create space for the passage of irrigation-aspiration (IA) probes behind the IOL. Bimanual IA of the flocculent cortical material was performed without damaging the posterior capsule. Air was injected at end of surgery to ensure graft apposition. All cases gained 1-3 lines of Snellen's acuity and no case developed graft failure, rejection, or endothelial decompensation. An intact posterior capsule is associated with better outcomes post a repeat graft, if required. Our technique helps avoid complications related to a disturbed anterior hyaloid phase and minimizes postoperative inflammation.

Evaluation of various preservation media for storage of donor corneas.

PURPOSE: To compare the physical and microbiological characteristics of McCarey-Kaufman (MK), Cornisol, and Optisol-GS media and evaluate the outcomes of keratoplasty performed using corneas stored in these three media. METHODS: The study involved 60 donor corneas which were distributed in 3 groups: MK, Cornisol, and Optisol-GS. Corneas in these groups were further analyzed based on the type of keratoplasty performed (full thickness versus endothelial keratoplasty). At baseline, the endothelial cell density and death to preservation time of donor corneas were recorded. Following keratoplasty, patients were evaluated on day 1, at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months follow-up. Outcomes were assessed in terms of corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), endothelial cell density, percentage endothelial cell loss, and corneal thickness. The storage media were also assessed for their physical quality and their microbiological characteristics. RESULTS: Physical characteristics of all three media were found to be within normal limits. Mean CDVA was comparable among the 3 groups at 6-month follow-up. The absolute endothelial cell count values were significantly lower for corneas stored in MK medium (1873.7 ± 261.1 cells/mm2) compared to the Cornisol (2085.0 ± 230.3 cells/mm2) and Optisol-GS media [(2180.3 ± 217.2 cells/mm2) (P = <0.001)]. Corneas stored in Optisol-GS medium were significantly thinner at 1-month follow-up with no significant difference at 6 months (P = 0.66). CONCLUSION: Optisol-GS and Cornisol media were found to preserve endothelial cell density better and stabilize corneal thickness earlier as compared to the MK medium. However, the functional outcomes were comparable among the three groups.

Femtosecond laser-assisted refractive capsulorhexis - Precise capsulotomy with accurate toric intraocular lens alignment.

Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery with refractive capsulorhexis and toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation was performed in 14 eyes with senile cataract and a preexisting regular corneal astigmatism of 1.5 D or more. Intraoperatively, the accuracy of the capsular rim marks was confirmed using the digital overlay of CALLISTO Eye and Z Align (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Germany). Postoperatively, the mean deviation from target axis of implantation was 2.07° ± 1.49°. Refractive capsulorhexis combines the advantages of a femtosecond laser capsulotomy with a one-step visual guide for intraoperative toric IOL alignment as well as postoperative assessment of rotational stability.

Elucidating intraoperative dynamics and safety in posterior polar cataract with intraoperative OCT-guided phacoemulsification.

PURPOSE: To evaluate morphological characteristics and intraoperative dynamics of posterior polar cataract (PPC) using intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT). SETTING: Rajendra Prasad Center for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India. DESIGN: Prospective interventional study. METHODS: Forty eyes with PPC undergoing phacoemulsification were evaluated. Primary outcome measure was morphology of PPC and intraoperative dynamics of posterior capsule (PC). Secondary outcome measure was PC rent, which was retrospectively compared with 72 PPC cases that underwent non-iOCT-guided surgery. RESULTS: Of the 40 eyes evaluated, 3 morphological variants of PPC were observed: type I (19/40 [47.5%]) characterized by intact PC and clearance between PC and opacity, type II (12/40 [30%]) with intact PC in periphery of opacity, shadowing, and inability to detect PC in the center, and type III (9/40 [22.5%]) with dense opacity, extensive shadowing, and inability to delineate PC. In addition to hydrodelineation, hydrodissection was performed in all cases of type I PPC. In types II and III PPC, only hydrodelineation was performed. No case with type I opacity developed PC dehiscence. Three cases (7.5%) with types II (1 eye) and III (2 eyes) PPC developed PC dehiscence during aspiration of epinuclear cushion. Intraocular lens was implanted in all cases in the bag or sulcus. There was no significant difference in PC dehiscence between iOCT-guided and non-iOCT-guided surgery (P = .7). CONCLUSIONS: iOCT-guided surgery helps to elucidate intraoperative dynamics in PPC and assess real-time PC integrity. It characterizes high-risk morphological features, enables safe hydrodissection in a subset of PPC, but does not decrease the incidence of PC dehiscence.

Double crescentic edge separation for the management of cap-lenticular adhesion in small incision lenticule extraction.

We describe a modified technique of lenticule extraction for the management of cap-lenticular adhesions (CLAs). In cases where the lenticule edge could not be delineated, a Sinskey hook was introduced through the cap side-cut with the hook facing up (toward the cap), advanced to the periphery of lenticule at 3'o clock (for right-handed surgeons) and used to nudge the underside of the cap in the region of lenticule side-cut. The diagnosis of CLA was confirmed on observing a crescentic gap between the lenticule-side cut and the rolled lenticule edge. The gap was enlarged to create a crescentic area of separation spanning 2-3 clock hours. A similar crescentic area of separation was created on the opposite side (9'o clock). A microforceps was used to segmentally separate the lenticule from both edges toward the midline followed by lenticule extraction. Our technique was successfully applied in 11 cases of CLA with no complications.

Real-time intraoperative dynamics of white cataract-intraoperative optical coherence tomography-guided classification and management.

PURPOSE: To evaluate morphological characteristics and intraoperative dynamics of different types of white cataract using intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT). SETTING: Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India. DESIGN: Prospective interventional study. METHODS: Fifty eyes with white cataract undergoing phacoemulsification were evaluated. The primary outcome measure was the classification of white cataract based on morphology and intraoperative dynamics on iOCT. The secondary outcome measure was rhexis-related complications. RESULTS: Four types of white cataract were identified based on iOCT-type I (9 eyes), type II (3 eyes), type III (24 eyes), and type IV (14 eyes). Type I had regularly arranged lamellar cortical fibers, type II had continuous hyperreflective bands of cortical fibers with intralenticular clefts, type III had intralenticular clefts combined with areas of homogenous ground-glass appearance, and type IV had homogenous ground-glass appearance of the anterior lens cortex. Capsulorhexis in type I cataract was uneventful. In type II cataract, cortical bulge was observed in the anterior chamber on creating the initial nick, indicating raised intralenticular pressure (ILP) with an imminent risk of rhexis extension. A bimanual irrigation/aspiration was performed until lowering of ILP was observed on iOCT. In types III and IV, fluid release was observed on initiation of rhexis leading to partial (type III) or complete (type IV) lowering of ILP, with a mild-moderate risk of capsulorhexis extension. A continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis was achieved in all cases, with no case of posterior capsular tear or vitreous loss. CONCLUSIONS: Intraoperative OCT helped elucidate intraoperative dynamics of the spectrum of white cataracts and facilitates completion of capsulorhexis.

Repeat keratoplasty in failed Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty.

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical factors associated with repeat Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) or penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) in cases of failed DSAEK. Methods: Retrospective observational study of cases with failed DSAEK admitted to our center for a repeat keratoplasty over 5 years (January 2013-Decemeber 2017) was undertaken. Demographic and perioperative details of all cases and type of repeat keratoplasty were recorded. Logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the factors affecting the type of repeat keratoplasty. Results: total of 94 eyes with failed DSAEK were evaluated. Repeat DSAEK was performed in 66% and PKP in 34% of cases. Significantly increased odds for requiring PKP were observed in association with stromal scarring [odds ratio (OR) = 2.9, P = 0.018)], trainee surgeons (OR = 4.05, P = 0.008), intraoperative complications (OR = 4.58, P = 0.003), scleral fixated intraocular lens or anterior chamber intraocular lens in situ (OR = 33.8, P < 0.001), secondary glaucoma (OR = 3.02, P = 0.015), peripheral anterior synechiae (OR = 8.6, P < 0.001), preoperative corneal thickness (OR = 1.01, P < 0001), time to primary surgery (OR = 1.03, P = 0.03), post-DSAEK host thickness (OR = 1.01, P < 0.001), and time interval from graft failure to regraft (OR = 1.18, P < 0.001). All eyes with congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy, bee-sting-induced corneal decompensation, Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome, and multiple failed grafts underwent secondary PKP. All cases (nine eyes) that required surgical intervention for secondary glaucoma underwent secondary PKP (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Repeat DSAEK is feasible in up to two-third of cases of failed DSAEK. A PKP is required in one-third of cases, and various preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative factors are associated with unsuitability for repeat DSAEK.

'Acute-angled bevel' sign to assess donor lenticule orientation in ultra-thin descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty.

A 6.5-year-old boy with congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy underwent clear corneal ultra-thin descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). After graft insertion, it was difficult to assess graft orientation due to hazy cornea. Intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT) showed a well-attached graft and the bevelled edge of donor lenticule made an acute angle with the overlying stroma. Postoperative anterior segment OCT confirmed the presence of acute-angled bevel sign. A wetlab experiment was performed with experimental corneoscleral tissues to confirm the findings. Donor lenticule was injected in the artificial chamber with stromal-side up as well as stromal side-down. 'Acute-angled bevel sign' was observed on iOCT in the experimental cases with stromal-side up. In inverse graft, the acute-angled bevel was not observed, instead the configuration was obtuse angled. Identifying the 'acute-angled bevel sign' on iOCT confirms correct graft orientation after unfolding and is extremely useful for hazy corneas and ultrathin DSAEK lenticules.

Small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) techniques: patient selection and perspectives.

Refractive lenticule extraction is becoming the procedure of choice for the management of myopia and myopic astigmatism owing to its precision, biomechanical stability, and better ocular surface. It has similar safety, efficacy, and predictability as femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK) and is associated with better patient satisfaction. The conventional technique of small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) involves docking, femtosecond laser application, lenticule dissection from the surrounding stroma, and extraction. It has a steep learning curve compared to conventional flap-based corneal ablative procedures, and the surgical technique may be challenging especially for a novice surgeon. As SMILE is gaining worldwide acceptance among refractive surgeons, different modifications of the surgical technique have been described to ease the process of lenticule extraction and minimize complications. Good patient selection is essential to ensure optimal patient satisfaction, and novice surgeons should avoid cases with low myopia (thin refractive lenticules), difficult orbital anatomy, high astigmatism, or uncooperative, anxious patients to minimize complications. A comprehensive MEDLINE search was performed using "small incision lenticule extraction," "SMILE," and "refractive lenticule extraction" as keywords, and we herein review the patient selection for SMILE and various surgical techniques of SMILE with their pros and cons. With increasing surgeon experience, a standard technique is expected to evolve that may be performed in all types of cases with optimal outcomes and minimal adverse effects.

Multimodal imaging questions etiology of idiopathic retinal vasculitis, aneurysms and neuroretinitis syndrome (IRVAN syndrome).

Idiopathic retinal vasculitis, aneurysms and neuroretinitis (IRVAN) syndrome is a rare entity of unknown etiology for which many hypotheses have been proposed with inflammation being the most commonly accepted hypothesis. We report cases of a 9 year old girl and a 22 year old male patient with diagnosis of IRVAN syndrome. The conclusions drawn from the clinical examination and multimodal imaging including optical coherence tomography angiography of the patients are discussed. Our conclusions and interpretation point towards IRVAN being a developmental vascular anomaly rather than a consequence of inflammation. It is thus proposed to be renamed as Idiopathic retinal arteriolar aneurysm syndrome (IRAA).

Optimizing outcomes with toric intraocular lenses.

Toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) are the procedure of choice to correct corneal astigmatism of 1 D or more in cases undergoing cataract surgery. Comprehensive literature search was performed in MEDLINE using "toric intraocular lenses," "astigmatism," and "cataract surgery" as keywords. The outcomes after toric IOL implantation are influenced by numerous factors, right from the preoperative case selection and investigations to accurate intraoperative alignment and postoperative care. Enhanced accuracy of keratometry estimation may be achieved by taking multiple measurements and employing at least two separate devices based on different principles. The importance of posterior corneal curvature is increasingly being recognized in various studies, and newer investigative modalities that account for both the anterior and posterior corneal power are becoming the standard of care. An ideal IOL power calculation formula should take into account the surgically induced astigmatism, the posterior corneal curvature as well as the effective lens position. Conventional manual marking has given way to image-guided systems and intraoperative aberrometry, which provide a mark-less IOL alignment and also aid in planning the incisions, capsulorhexis size, and optimal IOL centration. Postoperative toric IOL misalignment is the major factor responsible for suboptimal visual outcomes after toric IOL implantation. Realignment of the toric IOL is needed in 0.65%-3.3% cases, with more than 10° of rotation from the target axis. Newer toric IOLs have enhanced rotational stability and provide precise visual outcomes with minimal higher order aberrations.

Combined Hamartoma of the Retina and Retinal Pigment Epithelium: An Optical Coherence Tomography-Based Reappraisal.

PURPOSE: To analyze the optical coherence tomography (OCT) characteristics of combined hamartoma of the retina and retinal pigment epithelium (CHRRPE) involving the macula. DESIGN: Retrospective, observational case series. METHODS: setting: Single institutional. STUDY POPULATION: Fourteen consecutive patients of CHRRPE were included. OBSERVATION PROCEDURES: The authors analyzed the clinical features, color fundus photography, and swept-source or spectral-domain OCT of all the involved eyes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: OCT characteristics, especially the involvement of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). RESULTS: A total of 16 eyes of 5 female and 9 male patients were analyzed. The mean age (± SD) was 17.9 ± 6.4 (range 10-34) years. Mean best-corrected visual acuity (± SD) in logMAR was 0.9 ± 0.5 (20/160 ± 20/60). The OCT was suggestive of a focal mass-like lesion primarily involving the inner retinal layers limited externally by the outer plexiform layer (OPL) in 15 eyes (93.7%). The OPL appeared to have a saw-tooth appearance ("intraretinal peaks") in 12 eyes (75%). The convolutions of the OPL were broader and deeper in some eyes (5 eyes, 31.2%), giving an "omega sign" (ω) appearance. The ellipsoid zone appeared intact in 13 eyes (81.2%). The RPE band appeared intact in all eyes. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the OCT features, available evidence, and embryology, we propose that the true nature of CHRRPE should be reanalyzed. In our series, CHRRPE was noted to be primarily a hamartoma arising from the inner retinal layers. A majority of cases were limited posteriorly by the OPL without any involvement of the outer retinal layers and RPE.