What is it about?
Corneal dystrophies are a group of progressive disorders involving the most anterior layer of the eye. From these, Fuchs endothelial dystrophy is the most common. Some patients may experience important corneal edema and visual impairment, sometimes requiring surgical treatment - corneal transplant. Nowadays, there are several corneal transplant techniques, and corneal surgeons are able to selectively replace the damaged layers of the cornea. Among these selective techniques, DMEK (Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty) and DSAEK (Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty) may apply to Fuchs endothelial dystrophy. This analysis combines the evidence of all studies comparing the two techniques, to conclude on which one is most efficacious and safe.
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Why is it important?
Our findings suggest DMEK is associated with better postoperative results regarding vision improvement, patient satisfaction and transplant-related issues.
Perspectives
This article summarizes the existing evidence on this topic, and it was a unique opportunity to reflect on the advantages and disadvantages of each technique. Ultimately, the individuality of our patients should be taken into consideration in the decision-making process.
Raquel Esteves Marques
Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Santa Maria, Lisboa, Portugal
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: DMEK versus DSAEK for Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy: A meta-analysis, European Journal of Ophthalmology, April 2018, SAGE Publications,
DOI: 10.1177/1120672118757431.
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