Dr. Uma Sridhar, U05358, Dr. Aanchal Mehta, Dr. Parul Jain
DESIGN: Retrospective noncomparative interventional study.
METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted of 9 eyes of 9 patients(Age range 8-27yrs) who underwent manual DALK at a tertiary eye care center for keratoconus. The main preoperative parameters measured were uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and average keratometry. The average preop keratometry ranged from 55 -62 D and the minimum preoperative corneal thickness was 140 microns. The follow-up ranged from 24 to 36 months. The main outcome measures were UCVA, BCVA, steep and flat simulated keratometry, refraction, graft clarity and complications.
RESULTS: Complete dissection was achieved in all the patients. There were no micro or macroperforations and no double chambers postoperatively. All patients had clear visual axis in the postoperative period.
CONCLUSIONS: DALK is an effective therapeutic modalityfor the management of advanced keratoconus patients.