Ten-year follow-up of posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens with central port design in patients with low and normal vault

PURPOSE

To assess the clinical outcomes and postoperative complications of the implantable collamer lens (ICL) with a central port throughout 10 years of follow-up in patients with low and normal vault.

SETTING

Fernández-Vega Ophthalmological Institute, Oviedo, Spain.

DESIGN

Retrospective and comparative case series.

METHODS

This study included eyes that underwent a V4c ICL implantation with 10 years of follow-up. The eyes were divided into 2 groups according to the vault at 1 year postoperatively: vault <250 μm and between 250 μm and 800 μm. Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), endothelial cell density (ECD), vault, complications, and secondary surgeries were analyzed.

RESULTS

37 and 90 eyes were enrolled in the low and normal-vault groups, respectively. No differences in UDVA, CDVA, and refraction were found between the groups over 10 years of follow-up. No cases developed ICL-induced anterior subcapsular opacity over the follow-up period. 2 (5.4%) and 8 (8.9%) eyes in the low and normal-vault groups, respectively, required ICL exchange. 1 (2.8%) and 2 (2.2%) eyes in the low and normal-vault groups, respectively, required excimer laser to correct residual refractive error. The IOP remained stable throughout the 10-year follow-up. The loss in ECD from that preoperatively to 10 years postoperatively was 3.8% and 4.5% in the low and normal-vault groups, respectively ( P = .4). No pigment dispersion glaucoma or other vision-threatening complications were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows good long-term outcomes of the V4c ICL, supporting that the central hole provides safety to the procedure and prevents the potential risk associated with low vault.

Triple Procedure: A Stepwise Combination of Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty and Cataract Surgery

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes of the combined surgery (triple procedure) of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK), phacoemulsification, and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation using a new surgical strategy.

METHODS

The study included 43 eyes of 43 patients who underwent a triple procedure. Twenty-six eyes with good visibility through the cornea underwent phacoemulsification before the stromal dissection. Seventeen eyes with bad visibility underwent the DALK procedure first until achieving enough visibility to perform the lensectomy. IOL power calculation was performed for a postoperative estimated flat keratometry of 43.5 and aiming to avoid hyperopic postoperative refraction. The postoperative visual examination included uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) measurements and manifest refraction.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up time after suture removal was 3.06 ± 2.14 years. Mean CDVA significantly changed from 0.86 ± 0.56 logMAR preoperatively to 0.37 ± 0.28 logMAR in the last visit ( P < 0.0001). The percentage of eyes with CDVA ≤0.3 logMAR changed from 6.9% preoperatively to 62.8%. No eyes lost lines of vision after surgery, and 80% experienced an improvement of 2 or more lines. The safety index was 2.2. The mean postoperative refractive sphere was +0.13 ± 2.04 D, and the postoperative refractive cylinder was -4.02 ± 2.24 D. Only 2 cases (4.65%) obtained postoperative hyperopic astigmatism. No intraoperative complications were found.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined surgery of DALK, phacoemulsification, and IOL implantation is an effective and safe procedure. Depending on the corneal transparency, different surgical strategies can be established to provide more efficacy and safety.

Effect of intrastromal corneal ring segments on in vivo corneal biomechanics in keratoconus: 1-year results

PURPOSE

To evaluate the 1-year effects of the implantation of intrastromal corneal ring segments (ICRS) in keratoconus (KC) on the dynamic corneal response (DCR) parameters obtained with the Corvis.

SETTING

Fernández-Vega Ophthalmological Institute, Oviedo, Spain.

DESIGN

Prospective, single-center, clinical study.

METHODS

Included were patients who underwent ICRS implantation for KC over a period of 1 year. On the day of the surgery and at least 6 months after ICRS implantation, the following measurements were made: corrected distance and uncorrected distance visual acuity, corneal tomography indices with the Pentacam, biomechanically corrected intraocular pressure and the Corvis DCRs (integrated inverse concave radius, deformation amplitude ratio, stiffness parameter at first applanation, stress-strain index [SSI] and the highest concavity radius).

RESULTS

30 eyes were included with a mean follow-up time of 15 months. Statistical analysis showed that ICRS implantation induced significant improvements in corneal biomechanics measurements between preoperative and long-term follow-up as demonstrated by a significant increase in SSI (P = .003). To confirm that this difference was actually induced due to a stiffening between early postoperative (previously published) and long-term an additional t-test was done between month 1 and late follow-up which confirmed a significant stiffening in the value of SSI (P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients implanted with ICRS alone for KC showed a significantly stiffer response due to increased structural support compared with preoperative values and 1 month postoperative.

An effective method for culturing functional human corneal endothelial cells using a xenogeneic free culture medium

Endothelial dysfunction is a leading cause of corneal blindness in developed countries and the only available treatment is the endothelial transplantation. However, the limited availability of suitable donors remains a significant challenge, driving the exploration of alternative regenerative therapies. Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products show promise but must adhere to strict regulations that prohibit the use of animal-derived substances. This study investigates a novel culture methodology using Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) as the only source of growth factors for primary cultures of human corneal endothelial cells (CECs). CECs were obtained from discarded corneas or endothelial rings and cultured in two different media: one supplemented with xenogeneic factors and other xenogeneic-free, using PRGF. Comprehensive characterization through immunofluorescence, morphological analyses, trans-endothelial electrical resistance measurements, RNA-seq, and qPCR was conducted on the two groups. Results demonstrate that CECs cultured in the xenogeneic-free medium exhibit comparable gene expression, morphology, and functionality to those cultured in the xenogeneic medium. Notably, PRGF-expanded CECs share 46.9% of the gene expression profile with native endothelium and express all studied endothelial markers. In conclusion, PRGF provides an effective source of xenogeneic-free growth factors for the culture of CECs from discarded corneal tissue. Further studies will be necessary to demonstrate the applicability of these cultures to cell therapies that make clinical translation possible.

Clinical and Aberrometric Outcomes of a New Implantable Collamer Lens for Myopia and Presbyopia Correction in Phakic Patients

PURPOSE

To assess the clinical and aberrometric outcomes of a new Implantable Collamer Lens (EVO Viva ICL; STAAR Surgical) to correct moderate to high myopia and presbyopia.

METHODS

The study included 80 eyes of 40 patients who had bilateral EVO Viva ICL implantation. Uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuities, refraction, presbyopic add power, binocular through-focus visual acuity, total ocular spherical aberration (SA), coma aberration, and root mean square of ocular higher order aberrations (RMS HOAs) (i-Trace Aberrometer; Tracey Technologies) for a 4.5-mm pupil size were evaluated.

RESULTS

The mean binocular postoperative UDVA and CDVA were 0.09 ± 0.19 and 0.02 ± 0.03 logMAR, respectively. The postoperative spherical equivalent was -0.61 ± 0.54 diopters (D). The presbyopic add power reduced from +1.31 ± 0.74 D preoperatively to +0.44 ± 0.58 D after surgery (P < .0001). The mean visual acuity was 0.1 logMAR or better (20/25 or better) across the vergence range from +0.50 to -1.50 D, better than 0.2 logMAR (20/32 or better) up to the vergence of -2.00 D, and remained better than 0.3 logMAR (20/40 or better) up to the vergence of -2.50 D. The total ocular aberrations induced by EVO Viva ICL were -0.34 ± 0.09 µm of SA, 0.24 ± 0.18 µm of coma, and 0.26 ± 0.12 µm of RMS HOAs.

CONCLUSIONS

The outcomes support that the new ICL might be a good alternative for myopia and presbyopia correction in patients aged between 45 and 55 years. Further studies are needed to evaluate the threshold lens misalignment from which the patient´s visual quality would be affected. [J Refract Surg. 2023;39(9):589-596.].

Recommendation for Presbyopia-Correcting Intraocular Lenses: A Delphi Consensus Statement by the ESASO Study Group

PURPOSE

To establish consensus among experts in lens and refractive surgery to guide general ophthalmologists on issues related to presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses (IOLs).

DESIGN

A modified Delphi method to reach a consensus among experts.

METHODS

A steering committee formulated 105 relevant items grouped into four sections (preoperative considerations, IOL selection, intraoperative considerations, and postoperative considerations). The consensus was defined as ≥ 70% of experts agreeing with the evaluation of a statement.

RESULTS

Ten experts participated and completed all rounds of questionnaires (100% response rate). Of 68 items considered in the preoperative considerations, consensus was achieved in 48 (70.6%). There was a lack of consensus over IOL selection, the experts only agreed on the importance of the patient's habits for the optical IOL design selection. Of the 14 considerations related to intraoperative issues, the experts reached a consensus on 10 (71.4%). The postoperative considerations section reached the highest consensus in 10 items of 13 (76.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Key recommendations for a diffractive multifocal IOL were a potential postoperative visual acuity > 0.5, a keratometry between 40-45 diopters, a pupil >2.8 mm under photopic conditions and <6.0 mm under scotopic conditions, a root mean square of higher order corneal aberrations <0.5 µm for 6-mm pupil size, while monofocal or non-diffractive IOLs should be considered for patients with coexisting eye disorders. A lack of agreement was found in the issues related to the IOL selection.

Intrastromal Corneal Ring Segments Implantation After Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty for Astigmatism Correction: Mid-term and Long-term Follow-up

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the long-term outcomes of implanting intrastromal corneal ring segments (ICRSs) using a femtosecond laser for correcting astigmatism in patients who had previous deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) throughout a 5-year follow-up period.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 40 eyes of 40 patients with previous DALK and astigmatism ≥3.00 D who underwent Ferrara-type ICRS implantation. The manifest refraction, uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuity (logMAR), and corneal topography were recorded preoperatively and at 6, 12, 36, and 60 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

The mean UDVA (logMAR scale) improved from 1.39 ± 0.55 preoperatively to 0.71 ± 0.37 at 6 months postoperatively ( P < 0.0001). The mean CDVA (logMAR) significantly improved from 0.36 ± 0.17 to 0.22 ± 0.12 at 6 months after surgery ( P < 0.0001). Both UDVA and CDVA remained unchanged throughout the follow-up ( P = 0.09). Postoperatively, no eyes lost lines of CDVA compared to preoperatively, and around 80% of the eyes gained lines of CDVA. The safety index remained stable at a value of 1.4 throughout the follow-up. The refractive cylinder decreased from -6.86 ± 2.62 D preoperatively to -2.33 ± 1.09D at 6 months postoperatively ( P < 0.0001), and subsequently, it was stable over the postoperative period ( P = 0.2). The maximum and minimum keratometry measurements significantly decreased after surgery and remained stable over the postoperative follow-up period ( P > 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows the long-term viability of Ferrara-type ICRS implantation using a femtosecond laser as a surgical alternative for astigmatism correction in post-DALK eyes.

Spontaneous corneal clearance after graft detachment in DMEK

Descemet Membrane detachment is a potential complication after Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK). Here, we present a unique case of a DMEK surgery in a complicated eye that suffered a nearly complete DMEK graft detachment and later a graft opacification with a pseudo-anterior chamber. In Mid-November 2020, a planned DMEK was performed in a 64-year-old male patient due to corneal decompensation. Four months after DMEK, a fibrotic DMEK graft was seen across the anterior chamber with a pseudo-anterior chamber; however, the recipient cornea showed complete clearance with an endothelial cell count of about 1204 cells/mm2 and a best-corrected visual acuity of 20/25. Three months later, we observed a significant opacification of the detached graft, and the best-corrected distance visual acuity decreased to 20/63. We proceeded with the graft removal without performing a second DMEK. Ten months after graft removal, the cornea remained clear with an endothelial cell count of about 510 cells/mm², and the best-corrected visual acuity was 20/25.

Beam-Shaping Extended Depth of Focus Intraocular Lens: Optical Assessment With Corneas of Increasing Spherical Aberration

PURPOSE

To assess the optical quality and halo formation of a beam-shaping extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) intraocular lens (IOL) (AcrySof IQ Vivity; Alcon Laboratories, Inc) with corneas of long-range spherical aberration (SA) such as those resulting from myopic laser ablations.

METHODS

The optical quality of the EDOF IOL and a reference monofocal IOL was evaluated with three corneas (A, B, and C, with SA =+0.135, +0.290, +0.540 µm, respectively, for a 5.15-mm pupil at the IOL plane). The through-focus modulation transfer function area (MTFa) curves were obtained between -5.00 and +2.00 diopters (D) defocus range. The halo was also assessed with the three corneas.

RESULTS

Through-focus MTFa curves for a 4.5-mm IOL pupil showed a slight decrease in the maximum MTFa value provided by the EDOF IOL compared to the monofocal IOL in the three corneal situations (A: 45.9 vs 38.6 units; B: 41.1 vs 33.1 units, and C: 26.9 vs 23.8 units). For the 3.0-mm pupil, the EDOF IOL also had lower maximum MTFa than the monofocal IOL; however, the depth-of-focus increased to -2.20 D. With corneas A and B, the halo induced was of low energy with both IOLs. With cornea C, the EDOF IOL created a much larger and intense halo.

CONCLUSIONS

The EDOF IOL provided a good distance optical performance and an extended range of focus of approximately 2.00 D, with a halo of low intensity when evaluated with a corneal SA similar to the one induced by a low to moderate myopic ablation. With a high myopic ablation, the halo induced would be of considerable size and energy. [J Refact Surg. 2023;39(2):95-102.].

Long-Term Follow-Up of a 150° Arc-Length Intrastromal Corneal Ring Segment Implantation in Post-LASIK Ectasia

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcomes of implanting a 150° arc-length intrastromal corneal ring segment (ICRS) using a femtosecond laser in patients with post-LASIK ectasia throughout a 5-year follow-up period.

METHODS

This study enrolled 45 eyes of 45 patients diagnosed with post-LASIK ectasia who underwent a 150° arc-length Ferrara-type ICRS implantation. The uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuities, residual refractive errors, and root mean square (RMS) for coma-like aberration were evaluated preoperatively and at 6-, 12-, 36, and 60 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Mean UDVA (logMAR) ameliorated from 0.53 ± 0.33 preoperatively to 0.26 ± 0.24 at 6 months postoperatively (p < 0.0001). Mean CDVA improved from 0.12 ± 0.13 to 0.04 ± 0.06 (p < 0.0001). Mean UDVA and CDVA remained stable throughout the 5-year follow-up (p > 0.1). No eyes lost lines of CDVA at any follow-up visit compared to preoperatively, and most eyes gained lines. The eyes with a refractive cylinder ≤ 2.00 D varied from 26.7% preoperatively to more than 75% at all postoperative follow-up visits. The maximum keratometry was significantly flattened (p < 0.0001), and the RMS for corneal coma-like aberration was halved (p < 0.0001). 93.3% of the eyes did not show signs of disease progression or regression of the visual or refractive outcomes at any follow-up visits.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that implanting a single 150° arc-length Ferrara-type ICRS is a safe, effective and stable procedure for visual restoration in post-LASIK ectasia. In very few cases, visual and/or refractive instability was experienced throughout the follow-up.

Three-year follow-up of posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens with a central port design after deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty

Background

To evaluate clinical outcomes of the Visian implantable collamer lens (ICL) with a central port to correct myopia and astigmatism after deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) for keratoconus throughout 3 years of follow-up.

Methods

This study included 20 eyes of 20 patients that underwent V4c ICL (13 eyes with a spherical ICL and 7 eyes with a toric ICL) implantation after DALK. Uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuities, refraction, intraocular pressure (IOP), endothelial cell density (ECD), and vault were analyzed.

Results

The mean UDVA improved from the preoperative 1.18 ± 0.33 logMAR to 0.25 ± 0.14 logMAR at 6 months after surgery (P < 0.0001) and remained unchanged throughout the whole follow-up (P = 0.4). All eyes gained lines of CDVA compared to preoperative values. At the last follow-up visit, all eyes achieved CDVA of 0.2 logMAR or better and 13 eyes (65%) 0.1 logMAR or better. At 6 months post-surgery, all eyes (100%) had a spherical equivalent within ± 1.50 D, and 19 (95%) within ± 1.00 D. The mean manifest spherical equivalent was stable over the postoperative follow-up (P = 0.25). No significant increase in IOP occurred in any case throughout the 3 years of follow-up. The loss in ECD from the preoperative baseline at the last follow-up visit was 2.27%.

Conclusions

The clinical outcomes suggest that the V4c ICL implantation for correction of myopia and regular astigmatism in post-DALK eyes was satisfactory in terms of effectiveness, safety, and stability during 3 years of follow-up.

Optical and Clinical Outcomes of an Enhanced Monofocal Intraocular Lens for High Hyperopia

PURPOSE

To evaluate the optical and clinical performance of an enhanced monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) (TECNIS Eyhance ICB00; Johnson & Johnson Vision) in patients with high hyperopia and a short axial length.

METHODS

Power mapping, wavefront analysis, and the through-focus modulation transfer function area (TF-MTFa) were measured in vitro for three IOL powers (10.00, 20.00, and 30.00 diopters [D]). The clinical study included 22 patients with an axial length of less than 22.5 mm. Uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuity and binocular defocus curve were evaluated 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

For the three IOL powers, the power mapping revealed an increase in positive power from the periphery to the center of the lens, providing an extra positive correction of 1.00 D for a 2-mm pupil size. The TF-MTFa curves showed only a peak of maximum MTFa at the distance focus. As the pupil size became smaller, there was a focus extension effect, providing an extended depth of focus of up to -1.50 D for a 2-mm pupil size. No significant dependency of the IOL base power on the power profile, wavefront, or optical quality was found. The clinical outcomes showed that all patients achieved a binocular CDVA of 0.1 logMAR or better. The mean visual acuity was better than 0.1 logMAR between +0.50 and -1.50 D of defocus. At a vergence of -2.00 D, the visual acuity was 0.11 ± 0.13 logMAR.

CONCLUSIONS

The monofocal enhanced IOL provided good distance optical and visual quality and optimal visual acuity up to an intermediate-near vision distance of 50 to 40 cm in patients with high hyperopia and a short axial length. [J Refract Surg. 2022;38(9):572-579.].

Femto-LASIK after Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty to Correct Residual Astigmatism: A Long-Term Case Series Study

Purpose: To evaluate the long-term outcomes of femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (Femto-LASIK) to correct residual astigmatism after deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK). Methods: This retrospective case series study included 10 eyes that underwent Femto-LASIK after a DALK. The refractive error, uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuities, thinnest corneal thickness (TCT), and central corneal thickness (CCT) were registered. The postoperative follow-up ranged between 36 and 60 months. Results: All surgeries were uneventful, with no intra- or postoperative complications. The mean UDVA (Snellen scale) rose from 0.13 ± 0.05 to 0.47 ± 0.15 six months after Femto-LASIK (p < 0.001). All cases experienced a significant improvement in UDVA. None of the eyes lost lines of CDVA, and seven eyes (70%) improved the CDVA compared to preoperative values. The refractive cylinder changed from a preoperative value of −3.88 ± 1.00 D to −0.93 ± 0.39 six months after Femto-LASIK (p < 0.0001). In eight eyes (80%), the UDVA and refractive outcomes remained stable at postoperative follow-up visits. In contrast, one eye experienced a refractive regression over the follow-up. TCT and CCT were stable at the different postoperative follow-up visits. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that Femto-LASIK might safely and effectively corrects residual astigmatism after DALK. Despite these encouraging results, further long-term studies, including a larger number of cases, are required to confirm the safety of the procedure. The refractive stability in eyes with prior RK might be lower than for other DALK indications.

The Effect of Intracorneal Ring Segments Implantation for Keratoconus on In Vivo Corneal Biomechanics Assessed With the Corvis ST

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of the implantation of intracorneal ring segments (ICRS) in keratoconus on the dynamic corneal response (DCR) parameters obtained with the Corvis ST (Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH).

METHODS

This prospective clinical study included patients who underwent ICRS implantation for keratoconus over a period of 1 year. On the day of the surgery and at least 1 month after ICRS implantation, the following measurements were made: corrected and uncorrected distance visual acuity, corneal tomography indices with the Pentacam (Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH), biomechanically corrected intraocular pressure (bIOP), Corvis ST DCR parameters, integrated inverse concave radius (1/R), deformation amplitude ratio (DA ratio), stiffness parameter at first applanation (SP-A1), stress-strain index (SSI), and highest concavity radius (HRC).

RESULTS

Fifty-one eyes of 40 patients were included with a median follow-up time of 3 months (interquartile ratio [IQR]: 2 to 6 months). Statistical analysis showed that ICRS implantation did not affect corneal biomechanical measurements evaluated with the Corvis ST, which was demonstrated by non-significant changes in the SP-A1 (P = .637), 1/R (P = .647), HRC (P = .177), DA ratio (P = .735), and SSI (P = .501). Additionally, the results showed that bIOP measurements were not significantly affected by ICRS implantation (P = .113).

CONCLUSIONS

ICRS implantation does not affect corneal biomechanical measurements in early follow-up. [J Refract Surg. 2022;38(4):264-269.].

Impedance-based non-invasive assay for ocular damage prediction on in vitro 3D reconstructed human corneal epithelium

Reconstructed human cornea-like epithelium (RhCE) holds unprecedented promise for toxicological analyses and the replacement of animal use. However, current standards to evaluate potential ocular irritancy present a major downfall, the need to invasively alter tissue samples to evaluate cell viability. In this study, the applicability of impedance analysis was validated by monitoring the change in cell capacitance during tissue maturation and before and after chemical application using coupled electrodes. Our results indicate that cell maturation on RhCE models can be evaluated during model production using capacitance sensing offering a faster and simpler quality control criteria for RhCE model usability. Additionally, cell capacitance resulted to be more sensitive in detecting slight cell damages than methods based on cell metabolism, and when integrated into OECD-approved testing strategies, capacitance sensing performed as good as currently accepted methodologies displaying 66% sensitivity, 100% specificity and 83% accuracy when evaluated at 300 Hz. In summary, a quantitative analysis to predict in vivo ocular irritation based on changes in RhCE capacitance by impedance spectroscopy is suggested. This methodology represents a non-invasive and non-destructive alternative that would enable the monitoring of reversible effects or repeated dose toxicity.

Optical and Clinical Outcomes of an Extended Range of Vision Intraocular Lens

PURPOSE

To assess the in vitro optical quality and halo formation of the AcrySof IQ Vivity intraocular lens (IOL) (Alcon Laboratories, Inc) and to evaluate the clinical outcomes in patients who had bilateral implantation of this IOL.

METHODS

The optical quality was evaluated with the PMTF optical bench (Lambda-X). Through-focus modulation transfer function area (MTFa) curves between -5.00 and +2.00 diopters (D) were obtained for 3- and 4.5-mm pupil apertures. The halo was assessed in vitro with a test bench. The clinical study included 30 patients. Uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuity and binocular defocus curve were evaluated 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

The through-focus MTFa curve for the 4.5-mm pupil size showed only one peak at distance focus (38.4 units). For the 3-mm pupil size, the through-focus MTFa showed a lower peak of MTFa (28.9 units), located at -0.70 D, and an extended depth of focus up to -2.20 D. The halo formed was larger and more intense compared to a standard monofocal IOL. The clinical outcomes at 6 months revealed satisfactory visual acuity outcomes. All patients achieved a binocular CDVA of 0.1 logMAR or better. The mean visual acuity was better than 0.2 logMAR between +1.00 and -2.00 D of defocus. At a vergence of -2.50 D, the visual acuity was 0.31 ± 0.09 logMAR.

CONCLUSIONS

The AcrySof IQ Vivity IOL provided good distance optical and visual quality and an extended range of focus of approximately 2.00 D, obtaining an optimal or functional visual acuity up to 50 to 40 cm. The halo formed was low intensity overall, but higher intensity than a monofocal IOL. [J Refract Surg. 2022;38(3):168-176.].

A New Pre-descemetic Corneal Ring (Neoring) in Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty for Moderate-Advanced Keratoconus: A Pilot 2-Year Long-Term Follow-Up Study

Purpose: To assess the outcomes of implanting a new polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) ring (Neoring; AJL Ophthalmic) in pre-descemet deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (PD-DALK) procedure for moderate-advanced keratoconus.

Methods: This prospective study included 10 eyes of 10 patients with moderate-advanced keratoconus who underwent PD-DALK with Neoring implantation. Neoring was implanted in a pre-descemetic pocket. The post-operative examination included refraction, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), corneal tomography, and endothelial cell density (ECD). The root mean squares (RMSs) for coma-like aberrations and spherical aberration were evaluated for a pupil size of 4.5 mm. The junctional graft (Tg) and host (Th) thicknesses were measured. The post-operative follow-up was 24 months.

Results: Post-operative CDVA was 0.82 ± 0.14 (decimal scale), 100% of the eyes achieved a CDVA of 0.7 (decimal scale). The refractive cylinder was −2.86 ± 1.65 2-years after surgery. No eyes had a post-operative refractive cylinder ≥5.00 D and in five eyes (50%), it was ≤2.50 D. At the last visit, the mean keratometry was 45.64 ± 1.96 D, the RMS for coma-like aberrations was 0.30 ± 0.15 μm and spherical aberration was 0.22 ± 0.09. The mean ECD remains without changes over the follow-up (P = 0.07). At the last visit, Tg and Th were 679.9 ± 39.0 and 634.8 ± 41.2 μm, respectively. The thickness of the complex (host-Neoring) was 740.6 ± 35.6 μm. In all cases, this thickness was thicker than Tg.

Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that PD-DALK along Neoring implantation is a viable, effective, and safe option to optimize the post-operative results for moderate-severe keratoconus.

Seven-year follow-up of posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens with central port design

BACKGROUND

To assess the clinical outcomes of the Visian Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) with a central port throughout 7 years of follow-up.

METHODS

Eighty-four eyes of 52 patients were evaluated over a follow-up period of 7 years after V4c ICL implantation. Uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuities, refraction, intraocular pressure (IOP), endothelial cell density (ECD) and vault were analysed.

RESULTS

The mean postoperative UDVA (logMAR) was 0.04 ± 0.11, 0.13 ± 0.19 and 0.17 ± 0.23 at 1-, 5- and 7-years, respectively (P < 0.0001). The mean CDVA (logMAR) remains unchanged throughout a 7-year follow-up period (0.02 ± 0.08 and 0.02 ± 0.08, at 5- and 7-years, respectively, P = 0.2). At all follow-up visits, more than 95% of the eyes achieved a CDVA of 20/25 or better and more than 85% a CDVA of 20/20. At the end of the follow-up (7 years), no eye lost more lines of CDVA, 56 eyes (66.7%) and 28 eyes (33.3%) gained lines of CDVA. At 7-years, the spherical equivalent was - 0.62 ± 0.62 D. No significant increase in IOP (> 20 mmHg or an increase higher than 5 mmHg) occurred in any case throughout the 7-year of follow-up. The loss in ECD from the preoperative baseline at the last follow-up visit was 2.6%. No intraoperative or postoperative complications or adverse events occurred during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

The outcomes of this study show the long-term viability of the V4c ICL implantation as a surgical option for the correction of myopia.

Fibrin-Plasma Rich in Growth Factors Membrane for the Treatment of a Rabbit Alkali-Burn Lesion

The purpose of this work is to describe the use of Fibrin-Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) membranes for the treatment of a rabbit alkali-burn lesion. For this purpose, an alkali-burn lesion was induced in 15 rabbits. A week later, clinical events were evaluated and rabbits were divided into five treatment groups: rabbits treated with medical treatment, with a fibrin-PRGF membrane cultured with autologous or heterologous rabbit Limbal Epithelial Progenitor Cells (LEPCs), with a fibrin-PRGF membrane in a Simple Limbal Epithelial Transplantation and with a fibrin-PRGF membrane without cultured LEPCs. After 40 days of follow-up, corneas were subjected to histochemical examination and immunostaining against corneal or conjunctival markers. Seven days after alkali-burn lesion, it was observed that rabbits showed opaque cornea, new blood vessels across the limbus penetrating the cornea and epithelial defects. At the end of the follow-up period, an improvement of the clinical parameters analyzed was observed in transplanted rabbits. However, only rabbits transplanted with cultured LEPCs were positive for corneal markers. Otherwise, rabbits in the other three groups showed positive staining against conjunctival markers. In conclusion, fibrin-PRGF membrane improved the chemically induced lesions. Nonetheless, only fibrin-PRGF membranes cultured with rabbit LEPCs were able to restore the corneal surface.

Visual and Tomographic Outcomes of a 300° Arc-length ICRS Implantation in Moderate to Advanced Central Keratoconus

PURPOSE

To assess the outcomes of implanting a new 300° arc-length intrastromal corneal ring segment (ICRS) in moderate to advanced central hyperprolate keratoconus.

METHODS

Forty-two eyes with moderate to advanced central hyperprolate keratoconus were evaluated before and after implanting an inferior 300° ICRS (AJL Ophthalmic). The clinical measurements taken included manifest refraction, uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuity (logMAR scale), and corneal tomographic analysis (Sirius; Costruzioni Strumenti Oftalmici). Changes in the anterior and posterior corneal surfaces and the root mean square (RMS) for coma-like aberrations for a pupil size of 4.5 mm were evaluated. All examinations were performed before surgery and 6 months after surgery.

RESULTS

The mean UDVA improved from 1.12 ± 0.48 logMAR preoperatively to 0.73 ± 0.37 logMAR postoperatively (P < .0001). The mean CDVA changed from 0.33 ± 0.20 to 0.20 ± 0.11 logMAR (P < .0001). Postoperatively, the CDVA improved by two or more lines in 45.2% of the eyes and increased by one line in 19.04%, and none of the patients lost lines of CDVA. All of the anterior and posterior corneal tomographic parameters analyzed were significantly improved after surgery, except posterior flat keratometry, which remained unchanged. In 80.95% of the eyes, the postoperative mean keratometry was 50.00 diopters or less. The 6-month RMS for coma-like aberrations also declined significantly from 1.57 ± 0.68 to 1.06 ± 0.42 µm after surgery (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that implanting a 300° arc-length ICRS is a safe and effective procedure for treating patients with moderate to advanced central hyperprolate keratoconus and clear cornea. [J Refract Surg. 2021;37(4):249-255.].

Eye bank versus surgeon prepared DMEK tissues: influence on adhesion and re-bubbling rate

Aim

To investigate the difference in adhesion and rebubbling rate between eye bank and surgeon prepared Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) tissues.

Methods

Laboratory and clinical retrospective comparative interventional case series. Research corneal tissues were obtained for laboratory investigation. The clinical study involved patients with endothelial dysfunction who underwent DMEK surgery and tamponade with air. Tissues were stripped using a standard DMEK stripping technique (SCUBA) and shipped as prestripped or loaded in a 2.2 intra-ocular lens cartridge with endothelium facing inwards (preloaded) before transporting from the eye bank to the surgeon. For surgeon prepared tissues, all the grafts were stripped in the theatre and transplanted or stripped in the laboratory and tested immediately. Adhesion force and elastic modulus were measured in the centre and mid-periphery in a laboratory ex vivo investigation using atomic force microscopy, while rebubbling rates were recorded in the clinical study.

Results

There was no difference in endothelial cell viability between surgeon or eye bank prepared tissue. Surgeon-stripped DMEK grafts in the laboratory investigation showed significantly higher elastic modulus and adhesion force compared to prestripped and preloaded tissues (p<0.0001). In the clinical data, rebubbling rates of 48%, 40% and 15% were observed in preloaded, prestripped and surgeon-stripped DMEK grafts, respectively. Rebubbling rates were significantly associated with combined cataract surgery (p=0.009) and with time from harvesting the graft to the surgery (p=0.02).

Conclusions

Decreased adhesion forces and elastic modulus in eye bank prepared tissues may contribute to increased rebubbling rates.

Intrastromal corneal ring segment implantation in paracentral keratoconus with perpendicular topographic astigmatism and comatic axis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcomes of implanting intrastromal corneal ring segment (ICRS) using two different strategies in a specific paracentral keratoconus phenotype.

METHODS

Eighty-nine eyes with paracentral keratoconus with perpendicular topographic astigmatism and comatic axes were evaluated before and after implanting a 150° arc-length ICRS. Patients were divided into two groups according to the axis where the ICRS was implanted: Group I: comatic axis and Group II: flat topographic axis. Uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuities, refractive errors, and root mean square (RMS) for coma-like aberration were recorded. The postoperative follow-up was 1 year.

RESULTS

Mean UDVA (logMAR) changed from 0.49 ± 0.37 preoperatively to 0.30 ± 0.32 6 months afterwards (p < 0.001) in the group I and from 0.53 ± 0.34 to 0.37 ± 0.35 (p < 0.001), in the group II. Mean CDVA in group I changed from 0.11 ± 0.18 preoperatively to 0.06 ± 0.14 6 months after surgery (p < 0.001). In group II the improvement did not reach statistical significance (from 0.09 ± 0.10 to 0.07 ± 0.09; p = 0.06). No eyes lost lines of CDVA in group I. Eight eyes (15.7%) lost lines of CDVA in group II. The spherical equivalent decreased after surgery in both groups (p < 0.001). The RMS for corneal coma-like aberration only decreased in the group I (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Both strategies provided safe and effective visual and refractive outcomes in the specific keratoconus phenotype analyzed. The orthopedic strategy provided better visual outcomes than the refractive one.

Implantation of a Trifocal Intraocular Lens in High Myopic Eyes with Nasal-Inferior Staphyloma

Purpose

To assess visual outcomes in high myopic eyes with nasal-inferior staphyloma implanted with a pseudophakic trifocal intraocular lens (IOL).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the visual outcomes of 50 eyes of 45 patients who had cataract surgery after AT LISA trifocal IOL implantation. Twenty-five eyes diagnosed with posterior staphyloma (nasal-inferior, type IV and V), and 25 eyes as long eyes. Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) values were used to assess the efficacy and safety of the surgery. Refraction and defocus curves were also evaluated at 6 months.

Results

No intra- or post-operative problems occurred during the 6 months of follow-up. After the surgery, the mean Snellen decimal UDVA ranged from 0.50 to 1.00, and CDVA from 0.60 to 1.00 for both groups. CDVA was 0.91 and 0.74 for the long eye and nasal-inferior staphyloma groups, respectively. Efficacy and safety indexes were 1.22 and 1.32 for the long eye, and 1.26 and 1.43 for the nasal-inferior staphyloma group, respectively. All eyes of both groups showed a postoperative spherical equivalent within ±1.00D. The long eye group showed the highest percentage of spherical equivalent between −0.13D and +0.13D (56%) and the nasal-inferior staphyloma group was between −0.51D and −0.14D (40%).

Conclusion

The outcomes of the present study show that a trifocal IOL provides good visual acuity in high myopic eyes, being worse for nasal-inferior staphyloma eyes. The degree of tilt of the macular plane is related with the expected visual acuity.

Visual Function after Implantation of a Presbyopia-Correcting Trifocal Intraocular Lens

PURPOSE

To evaluate distance, intermediate, and near visual performance in patients implanted with a trifocal aspheric presbyopia-correcting intraocular lens (IOL).

METHODS

Forty patients were bilaterally implanted with the AcrySofIQ PanOptix IOL after femtosecond laser-assisted lens surgery. Binocular best corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) (4 m), best distance-corrected near visual acuity (DCNVA) (40 and 30 cm), best corrected distance intermediate visual acuity (DCIVA) (70, 60, and 50 cm), binocular distance contrast sensitivity under photopic conditions (85 cd/m2), and defocus curves were evaluated at 6-months.

RESULTS

Six months postoperatively, the mean binocular Snellen decimal CDVA and DCNVA were 0.94 ± 0.10 (ranging from 0.70 to 1.25) and 0.85 ± 0.13 (ranging from 0.63 to 1.00), respectively. At a distance, all patients showed a cumulative binocular distance-corrected visual acuity of 0.8 or better, and about 80% (n = 31) of the patients had a value of 1.0 (20/20). At near and intermediate distances, all patients showed a cumulative distance-corrected visual acuity of 0.5 (20/40) or better at 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70 cm. Specifically, 50 cm showed the highest percentage of patients with larger values of visual acuity (60% [n = 26] with 20/20). Defocus curve showed a wide range of useful vision with two peaks of best visual acuity at distance and at 50 cm, and the binocular distance contrast sensitivity was within normal limits.

CONCLUSIONS

The outcomes of the present study show that the visual performance obtained with bilateral implantation of the trifocal aspheric AcrySofIQ PanOptix IOL is good at far, intermediate, and near distances.

Five-Year Follow-up of Correction of Myopia: Posterior Chamber Phakic Intraocular Lens With a Central Port Design

PURPOSE

To assess the long-term correction of moderate to high myopia using a posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens with a central port design.

METHODS

Uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuities, refraction, intraocular pressure (IOP), endothelial cell density (ECD), vault, and adverse events over a 5-year period were evaluated retrospectively.

RESULTS

A total of 147 eyes (83 patients) were evaluated. Mean postoperative UDVA and CDVA were 0.05 ± 0.11 and 0.02 ± 0.08 logMAR at 1 year and 0.13 ± 0.18 and 0.02 ± 0.09 logMAR at 5 years, respectively. More than 95% of eyes achieved CDVA of 20/25 or better at both follow-up periods. CDVA was unchanged or improved from one to three or more lines in all eyes. Preoperatively, mean spherical equivalent (SE) was -9.20 ± 3.02 diopters (D). At 1 year, the mean SE was -0.17 ± 0.26 D, with 91.53% of eyes within ±0.50 D and 100% of eyes within ±1.00 D of the target. At 5 years, the mean SE was -0.44 ± 0.47 D, with 67.4% of eyes within ±0.50 D and 90.1% of eyes within ±1.00 D of the target. Mean IOP was 12.74 ± 1.65 and 13.0 ± 2.03 mm Hg, at 1 and 5 years, respectively. No significant rise in IOP (> 20 mm Hg) occurred during the follow-up period. Mean ECD was 2,696 ± 358 and 2,645 ± 359 cells/mm² at 1 and 5 years, respectively, representing a non-significant loss of 0.43% from preoperative values (P = .304). Mean vault changed significantly from 398 ± 187 µm at 1 year to 340 ± 163 µm at 5 years (P < .001). No intraoperative or postoperative complications or adverse events occurred during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

The good long-term outcomes found in this study support the use of this lens with a central port design for the correction of moderate to high myopia. [J Refract Surg. 2019;35(3):169-176.].

Three-year follow-up of intrastromal corneal ring segment implantation in central keratoconus with regular astigmatism: ‘Bow-tie’ shape

Purpose:

To assess the outcomes of implanting Ferrara-type intrastromal corneal ring segments in central ‘bow-tie’-shaped keratoconus over 3 years of follow-up.

Methods:

A total of 20 eyes with central ‘bow-tie’-shaped keratoconus were evaluated before and after implanting Ferrara-type intrastromal corneal ring segments (AJL Ophthalmic, Spain). LogMAR uncorrected distance visual acuity and best corrected distance visual acuity and residual refractive errors analysed using vector analysis were recorded preoperatively, at 6 months, 1 year, and 3 years postoperatively.

Results:

The mean uncorrected distance visual acuity (LogMAR scale) rose from a preoperative 0.75 ± 0.28 to a 6-month postoperative 0.38 ± 0.28 (p < 0.0001). The corrected distance visual acuity, in turn, improved from 0.07 ± 0.06 to 0.05 ± 0.06 (p = 0.0008). Both the uncorrected distance visual acuity and corrected distance visual acuity were stable over the postoperative period in both groups (p > 0.05). None of the eyes lost uncorrected distance visual acuity and corrected distance visual acuity lines over the postoperative follow-up period. The spherical equivalent and the refractive cylinder declined steeply after intrastromal corneal ring segments implantation (p < 0.0001). Both the spherical equivalent and refractive cylinder were stable over the postoperative period. None of the eyes had an increase in maximum or minimum keratometry greater than 0.75D over the postoperative period.

Conclusion:

The planning for intrastromal corneal ring segments insertion proposed in this study reduces the spherical equivalent and refractive cylinder in this type of keratoconus, while improving post-surgery uncorrected distance visual acuity and corrected distance visual acuity. These results remain stable over 3 years of follow-up. Therefore, this procedure could be considered as an effective therapeutic alternative in patients affected by this type of keratoconus.

Implantable collamer lens with central hole: 3-year follow-up

Purpose

To evaluate the long-term predictability, stability, safety, and efficacy of the V4c Visian implantable collamer lens (ICL) with central hole to correct myopia.

Patients and methods

One hundred and eighty-four eyes of 92 patients were evaluated during 3 years after implantation of the V4c ICL. The refraction, uncorrected distance visual acuity, best-corrected distance visual acuity, IOP, endothelial cell count, vault, and adverse effects were evaluated every 12 months during the whole follow-up.

Results

The mean spherical equivalent dropped from -8.30±2.98 D preoperatively to −0.37±0.47 D at 36 months post-surgery, with 91.8% eyes being within ±1.00 D of emmetropia. With respect to the astigmatic components J0 and J45, 98.4% and 99.5% of eyes, respectively, were within ±0.50 D of the desired refraction. At 36 months, 78.8% of eyes had no change in the Snellen lines of best-corrected distance visual acuity, while 8.7% gained one line and 6.5% gained two or more lines; mean safety and efficacy indexes were 1.03 and 0.90, respectively. Mean endothelial cell count was 2,742±340 cells/mm² before and 2,663±366 cells/mm² at 36 months post-surgery. Mean IOP reduced from 13.7±1.9 mmHg preoperatively to 12.8±1.7 mmHg at 36 months post-surgery. Mean vault varied from 409±196 µm at 12 months to 349±165 µm at 36 months.

Conclusion

The visual and refractive outcomes were very good and highly stable throughout the follow-up period, indicating that this ICL model may be predictable, stable, safe, and effective to correct myopia in the long term.