A modified surgical technique for Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) in altered or abnormal anatomy

Abstract

Purpose: This paper describes a modified technique for the Descemet's Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratopasty (DSAEK) surgery in eyes with abnormal or altered anatomy. Certain anatomic abnormalities increase the level of surgical complexity, and lead to increased risk of donor lenticule detachment. These challenges include aniridia, abnormal iris, aphakia and hypotony from previous vitrectomy. Observations: The Sheets glide was trimmed to 4mm in width and inserted into the clear-corneal wound. The “needle-push”/Fichman glide technique was used to insert the DSAEK donor graft. The modification of the technique involves maintaining the Sheets glide in the eye for the duration of the intraoperative air bubble. After confirming desired orientation of the graft, air was injected into the anterior chamber, creating a large air bubble between the graft and the Sheets glide. After 10 minutes, the Sheets glide was removed, and the main wound was closed. Conclusions and Importance: This technique overcomes the challenges of posterior air bubble migration and posterior dislocation of the donor lenticule in eyes with altered anatomy. Keywords: DSAEK, DSEK, Endothelial keratoplasty, Sheets glide, Surgical technique