Traumatic globe rupture after deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty – a novel management technique

Abstract

Background: A traumatic wound dehiscence can occur many years after surgery in 2-6% of all keratoplasties. Intraocular tissue prolapse can lead to severe visual loss. Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) leads to higher wound stability because of the intact Descemet membrane. We report a case of a novel management of wound dehiscence following DALK.

Methods: A 59-year-old patient underwent uncomplicated DALK for advanced keratoconus. Eighteen months later he experienced a traumatic wound dehiscence (globe rupture) after a fall. Visual acuity decreased to light perception on the affected eye, the iris and prolapsed vitreous were incarcerated, and no retinal details were recognizable. The corneal graft was dehiscent over eight clock hours, the Descemet membrane was ruptured, and the stroma dissolved over 30% of its surface in a bell shape.

Results: Primary wound closure was performed with nylon 10-0 single interrupted corneal sutures. One day after emergency treatment, a 23 gauge pars-plana-vitrectomy for vitreous hemorrhage was conducted and a retinal tear was treated with laser photocoagulation. The Descemet membrane was repositioned using a 23 g vitrectomy probe under air and the globe was filled with SF₆ gas. Postoperatively, visual acuity increased to 6/15 and the cornea cleared up.

Conclusion: Corneal graft and Descemet membrane repositioning after trauma can avoid a further keratoplasty and the risk of immunological rejection of donor endothelial cells. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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