Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK)

Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty by Big-Bubble Technique: Results and Complications

The purpose of this study is to report outcomes of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) using the big-bubble technique.

Purpose: To report outcomes of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) using the big-bubble technique.

Methods: Thirty four unselected consecutive patients were submitted to DALK big-bubble technique. Intraoperative and postoperative complications, postoperative uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), spherical equivalent (SE), corneal topography, and endothelial cell density were evaluated. All patients were followed for at least 6 months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• keratoconus

Exclusion Criteria:

• central endothelial cell count less than 2000 cells/mm2
• glaucoma or intraocular pressure greater than 21 mmHg
• amblyopia
• retinal abnormalities
• diabetes mellitus
• steroid or immunosuppressive treatment
• connective tissue diseases