Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty for Treatment of Pseudophakic Bullous Keratopathy

Purpose: To evaluate the results and complications of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) in the treatment of pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (PBK). Material and Method: Twenty eyes of 20 patients who underwent DSAEK with a diagnosis of PBK in our clinic between September 2010-January 2012 were included in this study. Pre- and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), refraction values, endothelial cell density, and graft position were analyzed. Complications and treatments were recorded. Results: The mean age of the 20 patients (1 lfemale, 9 male) was 71.44 +/- 7.55 years (range: 56-83 years) and the mean follow-up time was 11.35 +/- 3.90 months (range: 3-16 months). Preoperative mean BCVA was 0.04 +/- 0.044 and 12-month BCVA was 0.55 +/- 0.22 (p=0.001). Mean endothelial cell density was 1508.42 +/- 254.82 cell/mm(2) at 12-month follow-up visit. Dislocation of graft lenticule occurred in five patients and graft failure occurred in one patient. Discussion: DSAEK, due to the more rapid rehabilitation, is an alternative to penetrating keratoplasty in the treatment of endothelial diseases despite the steep learning curve and different complications.