Superficial automated keratopigmentation: experimental study of a novel surgical technique for iris and pupil simulation using a new puncturing device
Session Details
Session Title: Moderated Poster Session: News on Cornea
Venue: Poster Village: Pod 1
First Author: : O.Al-Shymali SPAIN
Co Author(s): : J. Alio A. Rodriguez M. Amesty M. El Bahrawy S. Rey
Abstract Details
Purpose:
To study the outcomes and tolerance of micronized mineral pigments for corneal tattooing, using a Superficial Automated Keratopigmentation technique (SAK) in an experimental animal model, using a new punctural device to inject the pigments into the corneal stroma.
Setting:
Vissum Alicante, Spain.
Methods:
40 eyes of 40 New Zealand rabbits were included in this study. The animals were divided in two groups. Both groups underwent SAK using a new automated keratopigmentation device. Micronized mineral pigments were injected through the epithelium into the corneal stroma to replicate the iris colour in 25 eyes (Group A), and to replicate the pupil in black colour in 15 eyes (Group B). Postoperative slit lamp examination was performed regularly and an anterior segment cosmetic examination scale was used to evaluate the outcome. Histopathological examination was also done to ascertain the presence of pigment dispersion, inflammation and/or neovascularization.
Results:
All the 40 eyes showed good cosmetic appearance after keratopigmentation. No intra-operative complications were detected. During the initial two weeks, mild conjunctival injection was observed in 13 eyes and transitory corneal epithelial defects were also detected in 27 eyes. Examination was unremarkable 2, 4 and 6 months after the surgery. No neovascularization was detected in any case in the histopathology study.
Conclusions:
Superficial automated keratopigmentation using a new automated punctural device and micronized mineral pigments showed to achieve good cosmetic outcomes for iris and pupil simulation. This method could be a valid alternative to treat serious cosmetic eye problems that affects the superficial cornea or functional problems such as photophobia or diplopia secondary to iris defects or trauma.
Financial Disclosure:
NONE
