Posters
An artificial corneal endothelial implant in animal models: 4 years' experience
Poster Details
First Author: O.Daphna ISRAEL
Co Author(s):
Abstract Details
Purpose:
To evaluate the safety and efficacy of an artificial implant for the treatment of corneal edema secondary to endothelial failure.
Setting:
Animal model
Methods:
A thin silicone membrane with an adhesive coating was implanted on the posterior cornea of 17 rabbits and 23 pigs from which 17 rabbits and 11 pigs Descemet��s membrane and endothelial cells had been removed, in 12 pigs the endothelial layer wasn��t removed. 16 animals serve as control. Slit lamp examination and corneal thickness (CT) measurements were performed for up to one year.
Results:
As long as the implant is attached corneal edema was completely cleared. There was high incidence of implant partial detachment leading to recurrence or partial recurrence of corneal edema. Other complication: One case of corneal perforation, one case of corneal ulcer that healed with topical antibiotic.
Conclusions:
An artificial silicone implant could provide an alternative to endothelial keratoplasty that would not utilize human tissue, will require less immunosuppressive medications, and could easily be implanted through a small corneal incision. Most common complication was implant detachment which is partially due to the nature of the animal model.
Financial Disclosure:
has significant investment interest in a competing company, receives consulting fees, retainer, or contract payments from a company producing, developing or supplying the product or procedure presented
