Posters

Platelets-enriched gel: a new surgical treatment option for catastrophic corneal ulcers and high-tendency corneal graft rejection

Poster Details

First Author: A.Campos SPAIN

Co Author(s):    P. Alvarez Fernandez   I. Mota Chozas                 

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To evaluate the combined use of platelets enriched gel and amniotic membrane in corneal reinforcement and reconstruction of severe corneal melting and spontaneous perforation in eyes with highly tendency to develop corneal graft rejection.

Setting:

Jerez de la Frontera University Hospital, University of Cádiz, Spain

Methods:

2 eyes with spontaneous corneal perforation and 2 eyes with severe corneal melting with pachymetry below 150 microns thick were selected. All cases were treated with a platelet enriched gel cloth sutured to the ulcer edge, and covered with a double layer of amniotic membrane, after the fully cleaning and scrape of necrotic stromal and epithelial debris. An additional treatment with platelets enriched plasma eye drops were used for 6 months to provide adequate growth factors supply.

Results:

After 2 years follow up, a reinforcement of corneal tissue, with a complete closing of corneal gap were obtain. Progressive amniotic membrane and platelet gel dissolution and integration into stromal tissue were obtain. The result was a thick opaque tissue, fully epithelised.

Conclusions:

Platelets enriched gel and amniotic membrane fixation to the cornea in cases of severe corneal melting and perforation warranty a prolonged and progressive delivery of tissue growth factors leading to cells proliferation and matrix formation. These factors will eventually lead to corneal tissue reinforcement and regeneration. It is a useful technique for the treatment of severely damaged corneas with recurrent inflammation and stromal necrosis, where a penetrating queratoplasty is useless or unfeasible.

Financial Disclosure:

None