Posters

Novel DMEK punch: first human trial

Poster Details

First Author: T.Chan AUSTRALIA

Co Author(s):    C. Bala                    

Abstract Details

Purpose:

Purpose To create a corneal DMEK graft with a tail that allows the surgeon to better control orientation, centration and unrolling of the DMEK graft.

Setting:

Macquarie University hospital

Methods:

Methods A novel corneal punch was designed to produce a DMEK graft with a tail. The graft was stained and loaded into a modified jones tube. The tail was grasped using a Tan forceps introduced through a contralateral 1.8mm incision. The graft was dragged into the anterior chamber and the tail was extravesated from the anterior chamber through the 1.8mm incision. The graft was then unrolled using the standard technique. In 3 eyes of 3 patients with failed corneas; previous failed DSAEK plus Baerveldt tube and Fuch's dystrophy were transplanted.

Results:

Results In all 8 eye the graft was successfully attached. The new graft configuration allowed controlled introduction of the graft. It ensured orientation and allowed centration of the graft. The visual acuity improved at 1 month from CF to 6/12 in the patient with previous failed DSAEK plus Baerveldt tube.  All remaining patients improved to 6/9 or better.

Conclusions:

Conclusion The novel DMEK punch can improve the surgeon's control during DMEK surgery.

Financial Disclosure:

... gains financially from product or procedure presented