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Endothelial cell loss greater in DSAEK eyes with existing drainage device
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PHILADELPHIA — Descemet’s stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty for corneal edema resulting from endothelial dysfunction remains a successful procedure in eyes with an existing glaucoma drainage device, but the incidence of intermediate-term endothelial cell loss is substantial, as is the graft failure rate, according to a study presented here.
“Endothelial [cell] health is another important contributor to graft survival,” Nina Ni, MD, said at the Wills Eye Annual Conference.
Nina Ni
Twenty cases were retrospectively reviewed for graft failure, defined as permanently decreased vision secondary to corneal edema, and endothelial cell count.
Patients experienced endothelial cell loss primarily in the first 6 months after DSAEK, Ni said. Loss at 1 year reached 62%, compared with 20% to 50% cited in literature for eyes without a glaucoma drainage device.
Ni attributed greater endothelial cell loss after tube shunt implantation to contact with the tube shunt from rubbing or touching, for example, and change in “aqueous nutrient make-up, compromising the ability to nourish endothelial cells,” among other factors.
Vision improved or remained stable in 85% of patients, Ni said.
Disclosure: Ni has no relevant financial disclosures.