The use of precut, γ-irradiated corneal lenticules in Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis implantation.

Purpose: To report the use of a sterile, γ-irradiated corneal tissue without viable endothelium (VisionGraft Sterile Cornea; Tissue Banks International) in lieu of fresh donor cornea in Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis (KPro) implantation.

Design: Retrospective, interventional small case series.

Methods: Eleven eyes of 11 patients underwent Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis implantation using VisionGraft Sterile Cornea between April 2009 and October 2010. Precut donut-shaped corneal lenticules, using femtosecond laser, measuring 8.5 mm in diameter with a 3-mm central hole were used.

Results: Surgical procedures were uneventful. Complete corneal re-epithelization was noted within 10 days in all cases. No complications related to the donor cornea (eg, stromal necrosis, wound leak, or device extrusion) occurred over an average follow-up of 16.5 months.

Conclusions: VisionGraft Sterile Cornea eliminates the need for use of fresh donor corneal tissue for Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis procedures, which makes this procedure a viable sight-restoring option when donor corneal tissues are not readily available.