Posters

A novel, cost neutral, surgical training technique for corneal grafting using human tissue

Poster Details

First Author: J.Myerscough UK

Co Author(s):    M. Georgopolous   A. Metaxiotis   D. Pimenides        

Abstract Details

Purpose:

Descemet's membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) is an increasingly popular technique following almost a decade of significantly improved outcomes compared with traditional penetrating keratoplasty. Small incision cataract surgery has resulted in trainees and fellows being less adept at corneal suturing making learning curves in corneal surgery even steeper. We describe a novel technique using excess material from a Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) to provide realistic surgical training.

Setting:

Broomfield hospital, Chelmsford. District General Hospital providing corneal services to local region.

Methods:

After completing DSAEK on a patient, the donor corneoscleral rim is placed on the used artificial anterior chamber. The remaining donor corneal disc is then placed on the chamber. The trainee is able to perform simulated penetrating keratoplasty with the real human tissue without the need for any further agents (eg viscoelastic). Sequential DMEK can then even be performed with the recipient's Descemet's membrane.

Results:

NA

Conclusions:

This innovative training technique provides a much needed safe, cost-neutral platform for advancing corneal surgical skills in a more realistic setting than currently available. FINANCIAL INTEREST: NONE