Combined deep sclerectomy and descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate a novel surgical combination of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) and deep sclerectomy (DS) for the management of concomitant corneal endothelial decompensation and uncontrolled glaucoma. METHODS: This retrospective case series noncomparative study included 9 eyes of 6 consecutive patients with coexistence of corneal edema resulting from Fuchs dystrophy or pseudoexfoliation keratopathy and medically uncompensated glaucoma; these patients underwent combined DSAEK and DS with mitomycin C and an absorbable collagen implant. Corneal graft clarity, endothelial cell density, visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), and identification of complications were assessed over a 2-year follow-up. RESULTS: All eyes obtained graft clarity throughout the follow-up, with a final average endothelial cell decrease of -36% from baseline, and showed improved vision and good IOP control without hypotensive therapy. Measured at 3 and 24 months postoperation, the mean visual acuity improvement was 154% and 372% and IOP decrease was 51.1% and 46.4%, respectively. Two anterior segment complications occurred in 2 (22%) patients' eyes. This consisted of a graft dislocation and a modest IOP elevation, treated successfully. CONCLUSIONS: Combined DSAEK and DS was longitudinally associated with good corneal graft survival and IOP control, with few complications. These findings suggest that this surgical approach is a viable option for patients with coexisting glaucoma and corneal endothelial dysfunction. Our study should stimulate a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial of our technique.