Deep Lamellar Endothelial Keratoplasty: Surgery in Complex Cases With Severe Preoperative Visual Loss

Abstract

DLEK surgery can be used in cases with severe visual loss caused by bullous keratopathy with transfer of healthy donor endothelium, clearing of the central cornea, and restoration of useful vision. DLEK also can be successfully combined with other intraocular surgeries such as vitrectomy, intraocular lens exchange, and sutured intraocular lens surgery. The DLEK graft can tolerate subsequent intraocular surgery performed as early as 3 months after placement of the donor tissue.