Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Pre-Punch Grafts in Corneal Transplantation in Patients with Keratoconus
Abstract
Objective. To evaluate and compare the clinical and functional outcomes of traditional penetrating keratoplasty (PK) and PK using pre-punched (Pre-Punch) donor cornea in patients with stage III-IV keratoconus.
Material and Methods. The study included 43 patients (43 eyes) diagnosed with stage III–IV keratoconus. The main group consisted of 21 patients (21 eyes) after PK with Pre-Punch grafts. The control group included 22 patients (22 eyes) who underwent traditional PK. The evaluation included visual acuity, keratotopography, endothelial cell density, and postoperative complications at 6 and 12 months.
Results. At 12 months, the main group showed higher uncorrected (0,42±0,09) and best-corrected visual acuity (0,64±0,12) compared to the control group (p<0.05). The mean Kmax was 45,7±2,1 D in the main group versus 46,9±2,4 D (p<0.05) in control group. Endothelial cell density was higher in the Pre-Punch group (2300±120 cells/mm2 vs. 2150±130 cells/mm2, p<0.05). The incidence of immune rejection was lower in the main group (9,5% and 22,7%, p<0.05).
Conclusion. The use of Pre-Punch grafts in PK provides better functional outcomes, greater biomechanical stability, and a lower risk of complications compared to the traditional technique.
About the Authors
A. F. Yusupov
Республиканский специализированный научно-практический медицинский центр микрохирургии глаза
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
S. S. Saidjonov
Республиканский специализированный научно-практический медицинский центр микрохирургии глаза
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
V. U. Rozukulov
Республиканский специализированный научно-практический медицинский центр микрохирургии глаза
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
T. N. Savranova
Республиканский специализированный научно-практический медицинский центр микрохирургии глаза
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
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Review
For citations:
Yusupov A.F., Saidjonov S.S., Rozukulov V.U., Savranova T.N. Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Pre-Punch Grafts in Corneal Transplantation in Patients with Keratoconus. Bashkortostan Medical Journal. 2025;20(2):8-12. (In Russ.)
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