Dr. ASHOK SHARMA

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a new indication for deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK): treatment of large corneal perforations.

Methods: Forty-one consecutive patients (41 eyes) who underwent DALK for corneal perforations > 3.0 mm were reviewed. The aetiology, size of perforation, and outcomes were analyzed. The surgical procedure consisted of DALK using the manual technique.

Results: Etiology included Mooren ulcer (11), post-bacterial (9), post-fungal (4), post-herpetic (3), post-traumatic (6), neurotrophic (5), and dry eye (2). 24 perforations (58%) were central and 18 (42%) were peripheral. 36 perforations (88%) healed successfully following DALK. 5 eyes needed penetrating keratoplasty due to recurrence of fungal infection (3), herpes simplex infection (1) and dry eye (1).

Conclusion: DALK is a safe and effective alternative treatment of large corneal perforations