Management of Descemet’s Membrane Detachment after Cataract Surgery—A Case Series

Abstract

Descemet’s membrane detachment (DMD) is an uncommon, vision-threatening, ocular surface complication of cataract surgery. Among several treatment strategies, sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) descemetopexy is the standard of care. Herein, we report three cases of DMD after cataract surgery managed with SF6 descemetopexy, showing different outcomes. Anatomical success was achieved in cases 1 and 2 while intraocular pressure (IOP) was elevated in case 2. In case 3, despite SF6 descemetopexy, recurrent DMD was observed. Due to persistent corneal edema and possible corneal decompensation in case 3, Descemet’s stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty was performed and a clear graft was found at the final visit. In conclusion, descemetopexy with 20 % SF6 is an effective and safe procedure for repairing DMD in most cases. Pupillary block with elevated IOP is another concern and prophylactic peripheral iridectomy is recommended. For recurrent DMDs, repeat descemetopexy could be considered. However, close monitoring is advocated since secondary management, such as endothelial keratoplasty, may be required.

Keywords

• ocular surface
• treatment
• descemet’s membrane detachment
• sulfur hexafluoridedescemetopexy