Purpose:

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of an artificial implant for the treatment of corneal edema secondary to endothelial failure.

Methods:

A thin silicone membrane with an adhesive coating was implanted on the posterior cornea of 17 rabbits and 23 pigs from which 17 rabbits and11 pigs Descemet’s membrane and endothelial cells had been removed, in 12 pigs the endothelial layer wasn’t removed. 16 animals serve as control. Slit lamp examination and corneal thickness (CT) measurements were performed for up to one year. In addition, a first in human trial has started with two patient up to date.

Results:

As long as the implant is attached corneal edema was completely cleared. There was high incidence of implant partial detachment leading to recurrence or partial recurrence of corneal edema. Other complication animal only: One case of corneal perforation, one case of corneal ulcer that healed with topical antibiotic.

Conclusions:

An artificial silicone implant could provide an alternative to endothelial keratoplasty that would not utilize human tissue, will require less immunosuppressive medications, and could easily be implanted through a small corneal incision. Most common complication was implant detachment. Presentation Preference Free Paper