Phacoemulsification with intraocular pinhole implantation associated with Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty to treat failed full-thickness graft with dense cataract

Abstract

We present a case in which a different approach was used to treat an eye with dense cataract associated with an irregular failed full-thickness corneal graft. After cataract surgery, a foldable intraocular pinhole was implanted in the capsular bag to treat the irregular corneal astigmatism. Next, a Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty graft was used to improve transparency in the failed penetrating keratoplasty. This approach addressed the cataract, irregular cornea, and failed graft through a standard 2.2 mm clear corneal phacoemulsification incision, thus avoiding open-sky surgical time and expediting visual rehabilitation.