Clinical outcomes and significance of postoperative ultrasound biomicroscopy in patients with Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis

TL;DR

This study examines the outcomes of Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis surgery and the usefulness of ultrasound biomicroscopy in monitoring patients.

Contribution

The study highlights the role of ultrasound biomicroscopy in postoperative evaluation of Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis.

Findings

Type 1 Boston keratoprosthesis implantation showed intermediate- and long-term positive outcomes.

Ultrasound biomicroscopy provided valuable information on anterior segment anatomy and complications.

Regular monitoring and treatment are necessary for patients with Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis.

Abstract

To determine the clinical outcomes in patients after type 1 Boston keratoprosthesis
surgery and the significance of ultrasound biomicroscopy imaging for postoperative
follow-up.

This retrospective analysis included 20 eyes of 19 patients who underwent corneal
transplantation with type 1 Boston keratoprosthesis between April 2014 and December
2021. Data on patient demographics, preoperative diagnosis, visual acuity, and
postoperative clinical findings were analyzed.

Type 1 Boston keratoprosthesis implantation resulted in intermediate- and long-term
positive outcomes. However, blindness and other serious complications such as glaucoma,
retroprosthetic membrane formation, endophthalmitis, or retinal detachment also
occurred. The use of ultrasound biomicroscopy imaging allowed for better evaluation of
the back of the titanium plate, anterior segment structures, and the relationship of the
prosthesis with surrounding tissues, which provided valuable postoperative
information.

Regular lifetime monitoring and treatment are necessary in patients who undergo Boston
type 1 keratoprosthesis implantation for high-risk corneal transplantation. ultrasound
biomicroscopy imaging can be a valuable imaging technique for the evaluation of patients
with Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis, providing important information on anterior segment
anatomy and potential complications. Further studies and consensus on postoperative
follow-up protocols are required to optimize the management of patients with Boston type
1 keratoprosthesis.

Figures