cal records that I reviewed and received, involving nearly 20 years of office notes and references from multiple glaucoma specialists, the implanted device was described as being a Molteno implant. I therefore requested copies of the original operative report because there was some concern by Dr Molteno that we may be dealing with a counterfeit device. However, to my surprise, I received 2 operative reports. The first describes a Molteno implant being placed in 1996, and the second operative report describes placement of a Krupin valve in 1998, in the same eye. This was the first time I became aware that the patient had 2 implants in the eye. Ever since I have cared for the patient (ie, since October 2011), his affected cornea has been opaque, and the only implant evident on examination is the one that was removed and labeled as "Molteno Implant Functioning as a Culture Plate" (which should be changed to "Krupin Valve Functioning as Culture Plate" 2 ) in the June 2013 issue. 1 I apologize for this error and for my assumption that this was a Molteno implant. I should have checked the appearance of the implant more closely, and if I would have noted the inconsistencies, I would have investigated this prior to publication.
Purpose
Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) is a partial thickness corneal graft which involves replacing a recipient’s Descemet’s membrane and endothelium with healthy tissue. Main advantages include rapid visual recovery, fewer higher order aberrations and low rejection rate. However, DMEK is technically challenging and requires advanced surgical skills. The aim of the audit was to assess visual outcomes of DMEK performed at Luton and Dunstable University Hospital (L&D), United Kingdom.
Methods
Data was collected retrospectively from April 2015 to November 2018. 57 eyes were analysed (31 male, 26 female). Patient demographic data were collected, as well as indication for surgery and pre‐operative visual acuity. Post‐operative follow‐up visits were analysed, including assessment of visual acuity, complications and graft failure and rejection.
Results
Pre‐operative visual acuity (Snellen chart) ranged from worse than 6/60 to 6/6. At an average of 6 months post operatively 87% of patients achieved 6/12 vision or better. At 1 year post procedure 59% of patients achieved 6/6 vision or better. At 2 years follow‐up 63% of patients achieved 6/6 vision or better. The most common DMEK related complications were steroid induced raised IOP (n = 9), partial graft detachment or dislocation (n = 8) and need for re‐bubbling (n = 7). 5 patients were listed for Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK).
Conclusions
Most patients undergoing DMEK procedure in L&D Hospital achieve 6/12 vision or better from 6 months onwards. Outcomes at 6 months, 1 year and 2 years are in‐line with the guidelines set by the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and previously published data. These are re‐assuring findings which suggest that more advanced corneal techniques can be carried out at single surgeon sites. Future work should aim to collect long term data on outcomes.
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