Modified Tectonic Corneoscleral Graft For Management of Devastating Corneoscleral Infections
Abstract Purpose To analyze the clinical results and the efficacy of modified tectonic corneoscleral graft (TCG) in patients with devastating corneoscleral infections.Methods Twenty-five eyes from 25 patients who underwent modified TCG were enrolled. The recurrence, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), ocular surface stability, postoperative complications and graft survival condition were recorded.Results Among 25 patients, 19 cases were fungal infection and 6 cases were bacterial. The rate of recurrence was 8% with Pythium Insidiosum as a corresponding pathogen. The rate of monocular blindness declined from 100% to 57%. Changes in BCVA from preoperative to postoperative values were significant ( Z=4.22, P<0.001). The survival of ocular surface stability was 73.6% and 43.9% at 1 and 3 years after surgery, respectively. Within the mean follow-up period of 17.5 ± 8.9 months, 21eyes (84.0%) had a stable ocular surface. The incidence rate of immune rejection was 36%. Corneal epithelial defects occurred in 7 patients and choroidal detachment occurred in 3 patients. No elevation of intraocular pressure was detected.Conclusions The modified TCG is effective in eradicating infection, salvaging the eyeball and saving some useful vision for devastating corneoscleral infections. Regular application of tacrolimus, timely addition of glucocorticoid and good compliance may decrease the postoperative course challenging.