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A novel murine model for keratoprosthesis research

Session Details

Session Title: Cornea

Session Date/Time: Sunday 16/02/2014 | 08:30-11:00

Paper Time: 10:45

Venue: Linhart Hall (Level -2)

First Author: : AljaČrnej USA

Co Author(s): :    Masahiro Omoto   Thomas Dohlman   Claes Dohlman   Reza Dana     

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To establish a murine keratoprosthesis implantation model

Setting:

Mass Eye and Ear Infirmary, Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA

Methods:

A miniature keratoprosthesis (m-KPro) device was created consisting of a polymethyl methacrylate front part and titanium back plate, designed after the Boston KPro. BALB/c mice were used and a 2 mm in diameter donor cornea was punched out. After 2 mm trepanation of the syngeneic recipient cornea, extra-capsular crystalline lens extraction was performed. The m-KPro was assembled onto the cornea button in a similar manner to human KPro implantation. The cornea – device complex was secured to the recipient bed with eight interrupted 11-0 sutures. All mice (n=10) were followed for 8 weeks postoperatively.

Results:

m-KPro were successfully implanted and retained in all 10 animals. There were no critical complications such as endophthalmitis, corneal melting, device extrusions, leakage, extensive inflammation, or weight loss in the animals. There was mild to moderate donor and host corneal neovascularization in all cases throughout the follow-up period.

Conclusions:

We have established a novel murine model of KPro implantation which mirrors clinical KPro with fidelity. This model will allow for future mechanistic investigations of host responses to KPro implantation. FINANCIAL INTEREST: NONE