Biomedical subjects

Achim Langenbucher

Publications and source records attributed to Achim Langenbucher.

At least 37 records · Page 2Linked to original sources

PubMed2004

Impact of phototherapeutic keratectomy on the outcome of subsequent penetrating keratoplasty in patients with stromal corneal dystrophies.

PURPOSE: To examine the impact of previous phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) on the outcome of subsequent penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in patients with stromal corneal dystrophies. DESIGN: Retrospective, cross-sectional, clinical single-center study. METHODS PATIENT POPULATION: Fifteen patients (21 eyes) age 39.9 +/- 11.4 years. INCLUSION CRITERIA: Primary homologous PK performed in phakic patients with granular or macular dystrophy; no use of combined surgical procedures; defined graft size and technique. The study group comprised eight eyes of five patients, PK performed 3.7 +/- 2.3 years after PTK. The control group (no previous PTK) comprised 13 eyes of 10 patients. In both groups, 38% had granular and 62% had macular dystrophy. Intervention Procedures: Phototherapeutic keratectomy was performed using a 193 nm excimer laser. All PKs were also performed using this laser, with trephination using a metal mask. Subjective refractometry (trial lenses), standard keratometry (Zeiss ophthalmometer), and corneal topography (Tomey TMS-1) were performed preoperatively, 6 months after PK, and after first and second suture removal (1.1 +/- 0.2 years; 1.6 +/- 0.2 years). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Keratometric, topographic net astigmatism, and refractive cylinder; keratometric and topographic central power; best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA); surface regularity index (SRI), surface asymmetry index (SAI), potential visual acuity (PVA). RESULTS: Refractive power and astigmatism, BCVA, and PVA values did not differ significantly between the two groups at any time-point; SRI tended to be better in the study group after first suture removal (P =.05). CONCLUSION: Preceding PTK does not appear to impair the outcome of subsequent penetrating keratoplasty in stromal corneal dystrophy patients.

Adult↗

PubMed2004

Comparison of 6-month results of implantation of the 1CU accommodative intraocular lens with conventional intraocular lenses.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical results of implantation of the new 1CU accommodative intraocular lens (IOL) in cataract patients and to compare results with those of conventional IOLs. DESIGN: Nonrandomized comparative trial. PARTICIPANTS: Twenty eyes of 20 patients (mean age = 65.8+/-13.3 years) in the 1CU group and 20 eyes of 20 patients (mean age = 67.4+/-11.6 years) in the control group. METHODS: All patients underwent phacoemulsification and IOL implantation. The 1CU accommodative lens was used in 20 eyes, and conventional IOLs (polymethyl methacrylate, hydrophilic or hydrophobic acrylate) were used in the control group. Patients were observed prospectively, and 6-month data were analyzed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Accommodative ranges determined by 3 different methods (near point, defocusing, and retinoscopy). Secondary outcome measures were (1) increase of anterior chamber depth after topical application of 1% cyclopentolate eyedrops and (2) distance-corrected near visual acuity with Birkhäuser reading charts at 35 cm. RESULTS: We observed a higher accommodative range with all 3 methods (mean = 1.83+/-0.49 vs. 1.16+/-0.27 diopters [D] [near point], 1.85+/-0.43 vs. 0.64+/-0.21 D [defocusing], and 0.98+/-0.55 vs. 0.17+/-0.22 D [retinoscopy]), a larger increase of anterior chamber depth after cyclopentolate eyedrops (mean = 0.42+/-0.18 vs. 0.11+/-0.06 mm), and better distance-corrected near visual acuity (median = 0.4 vs. 0.2) in the 1CU group relative to the control group. All differences between the 2 groups were statistically highly significant (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, the 1CU accommodative IOL showed increased accommodative range and better near visual acuity than a control group with conventional IOLs. Further research is necessary to confirm these results in masked, randomized, prospective studies and to confirm further the accommodative power of this group of new IOLs.

Accommodation, Ocular↗

PubMed2004

Morphometric analysis of deposits in granular and lattice corneal dystrophy: histopathologic implications for phototherapeutic keratectomy.

OBJECTIVE: To quantify the distribution and size of deposits in granular and lattice corneal dystrophies and to estimate the impact of these findings on the potential benefit of phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) as primary treatment in these corneal disorders. METHODS: Central histologic sections of consecutive corneal buttons (34 granular dystrophy specimens of 27 patients (mean age 53 +/- 12 years) and 20 lattice dystrophy specimens of 20 patients (mean age 50 +/- 17 years) obtained from central penetrating keratoplasty were examined by light microscopy using Masson trichrome and Congo Red stains. Localization and anterioposterior diameter of the most superficial, the deepest, and the largest deposits were quantified in the central and the two peripheral thirds of the specimens. Bowman layer status and thickness of the epithelium were recorded. The clear central corneal zone size before and after a hypothetical superficial PTK (100-microm ablation) was calculated. RESULTS: Central deposits in granular dystrophy were mostly superficial (mean distance from the epithelium 28 +/- 19 microm) and associated with Bowman layer and epithelial changes. In lattice dystrophy, deposits were mostly midstromal (mean distance from the epithelium 79 +/- 54 microm, P < 0.001) with a larger scatter, showing minor superficial involvement. After a fictitious PTK, a significant increase in mean clear central zone was achieved (P = 0.004). This increase in mean clear central zone was more pronounced in granular (from 484 +/- 389 microm to 1451 +/- 1954 microm) than in lattice (from 258 +/- 183 microm to 846 +/- 784 microm) dystrophy (P = 0.004). Deposits were completely removed in 22% of the granular dystrophy samples. In both dystrophies, a clear central "pinhole" greater than 1 mm in diameter was achieved in around one third of corneas. CONCLUSION: According to the histopathologic corneal deposit size and distribution, PTK may be an effective treatment to increase visual acuity in patients with granular dystrophy more than in those with lattice dystrophy, to delay or even avoid penetrating keratoplasty.

Corneal Dystrophies, Hereditary↗

PubMed2004

Difficult lens power calculations.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Although cataract extraction seems to be feasible without major technical obstacles, the surgical technique has changed completely, and patients are no longer satisfied with good spectacle-corrected vision but anticipate complete visual rehabilitation after cataract surgery, without correction. To fulfill this desire, toric or accommodative intraocular lenses are of increasing popularity, and the intraocular lens power calculation after keratorefractive surgery has been improved. RECENT FINDINGS: In this review article, we provide an overview of different mathematical strategies of calculating the intraocular lens power with standard formulas and with new algorithms, such as paraxial or numeric ray-tracing. These enhanced techniques may improve the validity of lens power calculation due to reduction of the prediction error, especially in cases with high or excessive corneal astigmatism and after refractive laser surgery. Furthermore, a new calculation scheme for the determination of bitoric eikonic intraocular lenses allows a distortion-free imaging in astigmatic eyes. The biometric determinants for the different formulas and calculation schemes are discussed in detail. SUMMARY: In difficult cases, standard calculation schemes are overemployed and new mathematical algorithms are necessary to adequately address these problems. Ray-tracing algorithms and other complex mathematical computation schemes are of increasing interest and will more and more replace conventional calculation formulas for determination of intraocular lens power.

Accommodation, Ocular↗

PubMed2004

Evaluation of normal corneas using the scanning-slit topography/pachymetry system.

PURPOSE: To obtain anterior and posterior corneal shape, curvature, and thickness of normal human corneas. To provide a semiquantitative analysis of normal topography patterns of the anterior and posterior corneal surfaces. METHODS: Eighty-eight healthy corneas of 44 normal subjects were analyzed using the scanning-slit topography/pachymetry system. Anterior and posterior elevation and mean power (central and steepest spherical and cylindrical) values and pachymetry data were determined. Right eye values were submitted for primary analysis; however, a comparison between right and left eyes was made in addition to test the possible reliability of the system. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between right and left corneas in 28 evaluated parameters, except for anterior central cylindrical (P = 0.005) and steepest cylindrical (P = 0.017) mean power. The anterior central spherical mean power correlated inversely with the posterior central spherical mean power (r = -0.27, P = 0.04), and the anterior steepest spherical mean power value showed inverse correlation with the mean posterior steepest spherical value (r = -0.44, P = 0.001). The mean central thickness of the cornea was 593.7 +/- 54.19 microm at the center and was 578 +/- 50.53 microm at the thinnest point, which was localized in 41% (n = 18) of the cases in the inferotemporal quadrant. An oval-shaped pattern was the most characteristic feature of the anterior and posterior elevation, mean power, and pachymetry maps. CONCLUSION: Orbscan scanning-slit topography seems to be a reliable technique for the evaluation of normal corneas not only for anterior shape and curvature but also for a real pachymetry gradient recording.

Aged↗

PubMed2004

Consideration of the posterior corneal curvature for assessment of corneal power after myopic LASIK.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of a separate measurement of the anterior and posterior corneal surface to calculate the total refractive power of the cornea after myopic laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: A total of 39 eyes of 21 patients (aged 33 +/- 9 years) were included in this prospective, non-randomized, comparative study. These involved 19 myopic corrections (- 3.5 +/- 1.6 dioptres) and 23 refractive corrections of myopic astigmatism (sphere: - 3.7 +/- 1.6 D, cylinder: - 1.2 +/- 0.4 D). All procedures were accomplished with the Keratom II). Coherent-Schwind excimer laser and the Moria Model One) microkeratome (150 micro m head) at the Medical Education Centre, La Trinidad, Caracas, Venezuela. Subjective refractometry, Bausch & Lomb) keratometry and Orbscan) slit-scanning corneal topography analysis were performed before and 3 months after LASIK. Corneal power was assessed directly using keratometry (K1) and Orbscan videokeratography (T1). Corneal power was calculated using the preoperative keratometric (K2, 'gold standard', clinical history method) or topographic power (T2, clinical history method) and spherical equivalent change. A composite value was derived from the Orbscan anterior and posterior surface power and central pachymetry (T3). RESULTS: Three months postoperatively, corneal power ranged in a descending order from T1 (42.33 +/- 1.78 D), K1 (40.82 +/- 2.20 D), K2 (40.42 +/- 2.36 D), T2 (40.03 +/- 2.51 D) to T3 (38.78 +/- 2.23 D). On average, T1 exceeded the gold standard by 1.9 D and the gold standard exceeded T3 by 1.6 D. K2, T1, T2 and T3 correlated significantly with K1 (r = 0.975, p < 0.001; r = 0.909, p < 0.001; r = 0.963, p < 0.001; r = 0.853, p < 0.001, respectively). The differences T1-K2 (r = - 0.699, p < 0.001) and T3-K2 (r = - 0.499, p = 0.001) correlated highly inversely and K1-K2 correlated borderline inversely (r = - 0.325, p = 0.043) with the intended refractive correction. CONCLUSION: After myopic LASIK, refractive corneal power is overestimated by direct keratometric and especially videokeratoscopic measurements. The higher the intended refractive correction, the greater is this error. A separate measurement of both refractive surfaces of the cornea tends to underestimate but may enhance accuracy of the total refractive corneal power if the history of the patient is unknown.

Adult↗

PubMed2004

Pseudophakic accommodation with translation lenses--dual optic vs mono optic.

PURPOSE: To investigate the pseudophakic accommodation effect in dual and mono optic translation accommodative intraocular lenses (AIOL) using linear matrix methods in the paraxial space. METHODS: Dual (anterior optic of power +32 D linked to a compensatory posterior optic of negative power) and mono lens power was determined in the non-accommodated state using linear geometric optics based on the Gullstrand model eye. The position of the AIOL was calculated from a regression formula. Pseudophakic accommodation was assessed with three systems: (1) forward shift of the mono optic lens, (2) anterior translation of the anterior optic in the dual optic lens system with an unchanged position of the posterior minus lens and (3) symmetrical anterior and posterior translation of the anterior and posterior lens. The Gullstrand model eye was modified by changing the axial length (and proportionally changing the phakic anterior chamber depth) to investigate the accommodative effect in myopic and hyperopic eyes. RESULTS: The dual optic lens system (2) yields a nearly constant accommodation amplitude of 2.4-2.5 D mm(-1) movement over the total range of axial lengths. The mono optic lens (1) provides a higher accommodative effect only in extremely short eyes (high refractive power of the lens), whereas for normal eyes (1.4-1.5 D mm(-1) movement) and for long (myopic) eyes the accommodative effect is much less than the dual optic lens. The dual optic lens system under condition (3) yields less accommodation amplitude compared with the dual optic system under condition (2) over the total range of axial length but provides higher accommodation amplitude compared with the mono optic lens system (1) with axial lengths greater than 22.3 mm (lens power 25.5 D). In the accommodated state, with lens translation of 1 mm, the absolute value of the lateral magnification increases with the refractive power of the mono optic lens (1) and decreases in both dual optic lens systems (under conditions 2 and 3). CONCLUSIONS: A mathematical strategy is presented for calculation of the accommodative effect of mono-optic and dual optic AIOL. The dual optic lens yielded a nearly constant accommodation amplitude of about 2.4-2.5 D mm(-1) translation, whereas the mono optic lens yielded an accommodative response of <2 D mm(-1) translation in long myopic or normal eyes. Only in extremely short eyes is the accommodative amplitude of the mono-optic lens higher than the dual optic lens.

Accommodation, Ocular↗

PubMed2004

Matrix-based calculation scheme for toric intraocular lenses.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: While a number of intraocular lens power prediction formulas are well established for determination of spherical lenses, no common strategy is published for the computation of toric intraocular lenses. The purpose of this study is to describe a paraxial computing scheme using 4 x 4 system matrices to describe the 'optical system eye' containing astigmatic refractive surfaces with their axes at random. METHODS: Based on the definition of a centred optical system in the paraxial Gaussian space containing astigmatic surfaces using 4 x 4 refraction and translation matrices, we derived a methodology for calculating the refractive power of thin and thick toric intraocular lenses by solving a linear equation system. In a second step, we derived a methodology for prediction of the residual spectacle refraction after implantation of any toric lens implant with any orientation. RESULTS: The capabilities of this computing scheme are demonstrated with three examples. In example 1 we calculate a 'thin toric lens' for compensation of a corneal astigmatism to achieve a spherical target refraction. In example 2 we compute a 'thick toric lens', which has to compensate for an oblique corneal astigmatism and rotate the spectacle cylinder to the 'against the rule' position to enhance near vision. In example 3 we predict the residual refraction at the corneal plane after implantation of a thick toric lens, when the cylinder of the lens implant is compensating the corneal cylinder in part and the axis of implantation is not fully aligned with the axis of the corneal astigmatism. CONCLUSION: We present an en bloc matrix-based strategy for the calculation of thick or thin toric intraocular lenses, with the flexibility of crossing an unlimited number of cylinders with restrictions to paraxial optics. The resulting system matrix S is written as a product of 4 x 4 refraction and translation matrices. Residual refraction at the corneal (contact lens) or spectacle plane can be derived by inverting the order of matrices for calculation of the system matrix.

Astigmatism↗

PubMed2004

Computerized calculation scheme for toric intraocular lenses.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: While a number of intraocular lens (IOL) power prediction formulae are well established for determination of spherical lenses, no common strategy has been published for the computation of toric IOLs. The purpose of this study is to describe a paraxial computing scheme for tracing an axial pencil of rays through the 'optical system eye' containing astigmatic refractive surfaces with their axes at random. The capabilities of this computing scheme are demonstrated with clinical examples. METHODS: Based on a schematic model eye with spherocylindric surfaces, we use two alternative notations for description of vergences or prescriptions: (1) standard notation (refraction in both cardinal meridians and axis), and (2) component notation (spherical equivalent and cylindric component in 0 degrees and 45 degrees. Refractive surfaces are added to the vergence in component notation, whereas the transformation of the vergence through media is performed in the standard notation for both cardinal meridians. For calculation of the toric lens implant, a pencil of rays is traced through the spectacle and the cornea to the estimated lens position as well as backwards from the retina to the estimated lens position. For calculation of residual spectacle refraction, a pencil of rays is traced backwards from the retina through the toric lens implant and the cornea to the spectacle plane. RESULTS: In example 1 we calculate a 'thin toric lens' for compensation of a corneal astigmatism to achieve a spherical target refraction. In example 2 we compute a 'thick toric lens', which has to compensate for an oblique corneal astigmatism and rotate the spectacle cylinder to the against the rule position to enhance near vision. In example 3 we estimate the residual refraction at the corneal plane after implantation of a thick toric lens, when the cylinder of the lens implant is compensating the corneal cylinder in part and the axis of implantation is not fully aligned with the axis of the corneal astigmatism. CONCLUSION: This novel mathematical concept for computation of toric IOLs or prediction of the refractive outcome with a toric implant in place is a straightforward, computer-based approach, which may substitute for more or less empirical methods of determining toric IOL implants.

Aged↗

PubMed2003

Predictive donor factors for chronic endothelial cell loss after nonmechanical penetrating keratoplasty in a regression model.

PURPOSE: To assess the diagnosis-based impact of donor parameters and trephination diameter as predictive factors on corneal endothelial cell density with an exponential regression model after nonmechanical penetrating keratoplasty (PK). METHODS: Six hundred thirty-one eyes [291 keratoconus (group I, trephination diameter 8.0 mm); 202 Fuchs' dystrophies (group II, trephination diameter 7.5 mm)-84 PK only (IIa) and 118 triple procedures (IIb); and 138 pseudophakic bullous keratopathies (group III, trephination diameter 6.5-8.0 mm)] were included in this retrospective study. The time course of the endothelial cell density (specular microscope EM 1100, Tomey, Erlangen) after PK was assessed. Endothelial cell density was analyzed in a longitudinal manner considering at least three valid postoperative cell counts (follow-up 29+/-17 months) with an exponential regression model (minimizing the residuum between observed and predicted endothelial cell count). The following potentially predictive parameters were assessed: donor age (DA), post-mortem time (PM), storage time (ST) and trephination diameter (group III). RESULTS: In the exponential regression model endothelial cell count decreased in I/II/III by 3.1+/-24.2% / 12.6+/-20.2% (IIa: 8.9+/-17.3%, IIb: 14.8+/-22.0%) / 18.7+/-27.3% annually. PM ( P=0.16 / P=0.10 / P=0.25) and DA ( P=0.20, / P=0.12 / P=0.16) did not correlate with the cell loss, but ST ( P=0.04 / P=0.04 / P=0.02) showed a mild correlation, especially in short-term-stored corneas. In group III the trephination diameter ( P=0.01) correlated inversely with the cell loss. Between short-term-preserved and organ-cultured donor corneas there was no statistically significant difference in the cell loss in any group. CONCLUSIONS: The post-mortem time and the donor age is not associated with a chronic endothelial cell loss after keratoplasty, whereas a long storage time may exaggerate the endothelial cell loss. Between short-term-preserved and organ-cultured donor corneas there was no difference in the time gradient. In bullous keratopathy patients a larger trephination size reduces the chronic endothelial cell loss.

Adolescent↗

PubMed2003

Corneal shrinkage induced by nonmechanical Q-switched erbium:YAG laser trephination for penetrating keratoplasty in porcine eyes.

PURPOSE: To assess the degree of corneal diameter shrinkage induced by Q-switched mid-infrared laser corneal trephination for penetrating keratoplasty in an experimental model. METHODS: Corneal trephination was performed in 80 enucleated porcine eyes fixed in a holder centered on an automated globe rotation device, by Q-switched (2.94 microm) Er:YAG laser along open masks. Four types of masks were used to protect the underlying corneal tissue: metal masks (donor and recipient) and ceramic masks (donor and recipient). Two spot diameters (0.65 mm and 0.96 mm) were combined with two energy settings (40 mJ/pulse and 50 mJ/pulse) for each of the masks used. Repetition rate was fixed at 5 Hz. Diameters of donor buttons/recipient beds (horizontal and vertical) were measured immediately after the trephination and compared to the given mask size. RESULTS: Minimum corneal shrinkage was found in the recipient metal mask group (mean +/- SD=0.3+/-0.4%) with 50 mJ pulse energy and 0.65 mm spot diameter (in the horizontal diameter), while the maximum shrinkage (5.3+/-2.8%) was found in the donor metal mask group with 50 mJ pulse energy and 0.96 mm spot diameter. Corneal shrinkage was less pronounced in recipient beds than in donor buttons (P<0.01). The differences in shrinkage between the use of ceramic and metal masks were insignificant (P>0.05). Mean induced corneal diameter discrepancies between the donor button and the recipient bed (with metal and ceramic masks) were 2.5% and 2.5% in vertical diameter and 3.4% and 2.4% in horizontal diameter. CONCLUSIONS: The Q-switched Er:YAG laser experimental corneal trephination for penetrating keratoplasty may induce minor degrees of corneal diameter shrinkage in donor buttons and recipient openings. Oversizing of donor masks by 0.25-0.35 mm (i.e. 3-4% of graft size) may be a valid option to avoid refractive consequences.

Animals↗

PubMed2003

Nonmechanical Q-switched erbium:YAG laser trephination for penetrating keratoplasty: experimental study on human donor corneas.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the alterations in human donor corneal tissue induced by Q-switched erbium (Er):YAG laser corneal trephination. METHODS: Thirty human corneoscleral donor buttons unsuitable for transplantation were placed in an artificial chamber on an automated rotation device. Corneas were trephined with a Q-switched Er:YAG laser (wavelength, 2.94 microm; pulse duration, 400 nanoseconds) along (donor and recipient) aluminum silicate (ceramic) open masks. A spot diameter of 0.65 mm, energy setting of 50 mJ/pulse, and repetition rate of 5 Hz were used. Corneal thermal damage and cut regularity were quantitatively assessed in 24 corneas processed for light microscopy and by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. RESULTS: The stromal thermal damage was the highest (mean [SD], 8.0 [2.7] microm) at a 150-microm cut depth and decreased downward. Cut regularity was very good and did not significantly differ between donors and recipients. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed that the cuts were highly regular; transmission electron microscopy revealed 2 distinctive subzones within the stromal thermal damage zone. CONCLUSIONS: Thermal damage induced by Q-switched Er:YAG nonmechanical corneal trephination was low, and the regularity of the cuts was very good. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The Q-switched Er:YAG laser may have the potential to become an alternative to the excimer laser for nonmechanical penetrating keratoplasty.

Cornea↗

PubMed2003

Theoretical and measured pseudophakic accommodation after implantation of a new accommodative posterior chamber intraocular lens.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze different techniques of measuring accommodation after implantation of a new accommodative posterior chamber intraocular lens (PCIOL). METHODS: In this comparative, nonrandomized interventional study, we analyzed 15 eyes of 15 patients (aged 44-84 years) at 6 months after cataract surgery and PCIOL implantation (Akkommodative 1CU; HumanOptics AG, Erlangen, Germany) and compared these results with those of an age-matched control group (n = 15). We used the following methods to measure accommodation: dynamic measurement with objective (videorefractometry [PowerRefractor; PlusOptix, Erlangen] and streak retinoscopy) and subjective (subjective near point [push-up test and accommodometer] and defocusing) techniques, as well as static measurement of the change in anterior chamber depth (ACD) using the IOLMaster (Zeiss, Jena, Germany) after pharmacological stimulation using 2% pilocarpine eye drops. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Theoretical accommodation calculated from the forward shift of the lens optics (decrease of ACD) using paraxial geometrical optics and measured accommodation amplitude. RESULTS: Accommodation amplitude (mean +/- SD; range; median) results after 6 months in the study and control groups were as follows: 1.00 +/- 0.44; 0.75-2.13; 1 diopter (D); and 0.35 +/- 0.26; 0.10-0.65; 0.25 D, respectively, using the PowerRefractor; 0.99 +/- 0.48; 0.13-2.00; 0.88 D; and 0.24 +/- 0.21; -0.13-0.75; 0.25 D, respectively, using retinoscopy; 1.6 +/- 0.55; 0.50-2.56; 1.7 D; and 0.42 +/- 0.25; 0.00-0.75; 0.50 D, respectively, using subjective near point; and 1.46 +/- 0.53; 1.00-2.50; 1.75 D; and 0.55 +/- 0.33; 0.25-0.87; 0.50 D, respectively, using defocusing. Anterior chamber depth decreased in the study and control groups as follows: 0.78 +/- 0.12; 0.49-1.91; 0.65 mm; and 0.16 +/- 0.09; 0.00-0.34; 0.18 mm, respectively, after applying 2% pilocarpine eyedrops, indicating an accommodation of 1.16 +/- 0.22; 0.72-1.88; 1.05 D vs 0.22 +/- 0.13; 0.00-0.47; 0.23 D (P =.001). CONCLUSIONS: Accommodation after implantation of a presumably accommodative PCIOL can be measured with clinical methods or derived from the biometric data of the eye and the measured ACD decrease using geometrical optics. For clinical purposes, pseudophakic accommodation should be assessed with a variety of different techniques, including subjective and objective measurements. The theoretical approach using geometrical optics may be an additional indicator for the accommodative response in patients with pseudophakic eyes and may allow a subdivision of the measured accommodation into true pseudophakic accommodation and pseudoaccommodation.

Accommodation, Ocular↗

PubMed2003

Nonmechanical posterior lamellar keratoplasty using the femtosecond laser (femto-plak) for corneal endothelial decompensation.

PURPOSE: To assess the potential of a short pulsed laser to cut a posterior graft and bed for posterior lamellar keratoplasty (PLAK). DESIGN: Experimental study. METHODS: Using the laser FEMTEC (20/10 Perfect Vision, Heidelberg, Germany), posterior lamellar dissections (wave length approximately 1 microm, pulse energy < 10 microJ, spot size <10 microm, repetition rate 12.5 kHz, 6-mm-7 mm diameter, 31 s and 90 s) were performed in 18 freshly enucleated porcine eyes and 10 human donor corneas starting from the anterior chamber and ending with the lamellar bed. RESULTS: Before removal, 50 microm to 500 microm-thick flaps were delineated by partly confluent gas bubbles (maximum 2-mm long) with minute tissue bridges (typically 5- to 10 microm) in between. Scanning electron microscopy displayed smooth cut surfaces and rectangular corners with minor remaining tissue bridges (approximately 5 microm). By transmission electron microscopy, the cut edges were lined by a delicate, electron-dense layer (5 nm-10 nm in width) and essentially normal adjacent collagen fibers. CONCLUSIONS: Femtosecond laser technology seems to offer a promising approach to minimally invasive posterior lamellar keratoplasty (femto-PLAK) through small tunnel incisions in corneal endothelial diseases.

Animals↗

PubMed2003

Impact of graft diameter on corneal power and the regularity of postkeratoplasty astigmatism before and after suture removal.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of graft diameter on corneal curvature before and after removal of a double-running suture after nonmechanical penetrating keratoplasty (PK). DESIGN: Prospective, nonrandomized, comparative (self-controlled) single-center clinical trial. PATIENTS: Four hundred eighty-nine eyes with "two sutures in" and 308 eyes with "all sutures out" (mean age, 52+/-19 years) were included. The diagnoses were keratoconus (48%), Fuchs' and stromal dystrophies (31%), aphakic or pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (11%), and scars (10%). INTERVENTIONS: In all eyes, a central trephination was performed (donor trephination from the epithelial side) using the 193-nm Meditec excimer laser (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Jena, Germany) along metal masks with eight "orientation teeth/notches." Diameters were 8.0 mm, 7.5 mm, and 7.0 mm with a graft oversize of 0.1 mm. In 29% of eyes, additional cataract, intraocular lens surgery, or both were performed simultaneously. In all eyes, a double-running 10-0 nylon suture was applied. Zeiss keratometry and TMS-1 topography analysis were performed before removal of the first suture (14+/-4 months) and at least 6 weeks after removal of the second suture (20+/-4 months), but before any additional surgery, such as cataract extraction or refractive keratotomies. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Topographic central corneal power (CP; keratometric diopters), keratometric astigmatism (KA), surface regularity index (SRI), and surface asymmetry index (SAI). The regularity of keratometry mires was recorded semiquantitatively from 0 = regular to 3 = not measurable (as published earlier). RESULTS: With both sutures in, median CP in 7.0-mm (42.0 diopters [D]; P = 0.04) and in 7.5-mm grafts (42.3 D; P = 0.007) was significantly lower than in 8.0-mm grafts (43.0 D). Keratometric astigmatism did not differ between groups (3.0 D vs. 3.0 D vs. 2.7 D). The SRI (1.66 vs. 1.43 vs. 1.11) and SAI (1.55 vs. 1.24 vs. 0.85) decreased significantly with increasing diameter. The proportion of regular keratometry mires (13% vs. 17% vs. 29%) increased, and the proportion of not measurable keratometries (45% vs. 18% vs. 9%) decreased with increasing diameter. With all sutures out, CP in 7.0-mm grafts (40.4 D) was significantly smaller than in 7.5-mm (43.6 D; P = 0.04) and 8.0-mm grafts (43.3 D; P = 0.04). Again, KA did not differ between groups (3.0 D vs. 3.2 D vs. 3.0 D). The SRI (1.40 vs. 1.09 vs. 0.84) and SAI (1.24 vs. 0.83 vs. 0.62) decreased significantly with increasing diameter. The proportion of regular keratometry mires (5% vs. 31% vs. 52%) increased, and the proportion of not measurable keratometries (42% vs. 11% vs. 4%) decreased with increasing diameter. CONCLUSIONS: After PK, a smaller graft diameter results in a flatter curvature and a higher degree of topographic irregularity, but not in higher net astigmatism. After suture removal, graft topography tends to regularize, whereas the principal differences between diameters do persist.

Adult↗

PubMed2003

Measurement of accommodation after implantation of an accommodating posterior chamber intraocular lens.

PURPOSE: To analyze techniques of measuring accommodation after implantation of an accommodating posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC IOL). SETTING: Department of Ophthalmology and University Eye Hospital, University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany. METHODS: This prospective study analyzed 23 eyes of 23 patients (aged 41 to 87 years) after cataract surgery and PC IOL implantation (1 CU, HumanOptics) 4 weeks and 3 and 6 months after surgery. The results were compared to those in an age-matched control group (n = 20) 6 months after surgery. The following methods were used to measure accommodation: dynamic with objective techniques (PlusOptix PowerRefractor videorefractometry, streak retinoscopy) and subjective techniques (subjective near point [push-up test, accommodometer], defocusing); static with pharmacologic stimulation after pilocarpine 2% eyedrops directly (conventional refractometry); indirectly (change in the anterior chamber depth [ACD] with Zeiss IOLMaster). RESULTS: Results at 6 months, given as mean +/- SD (range), in the study and control groups, respectively, were as follows: near visual acuity (Birkhäuser reading charts at 35 cm) with distance correction, 0.32 +/- 0.11 (0.20 to 0.60) and 0.14 +/- 0.10 (0.05 to 0.30); accommodation amplitude (diopters) by PowerRefractor, 1.00 +/- 0.44 (0.75 to 2.13) and 0.35 +/- 0.26 (0.10 to 0.65), by retinoscopy, 0.99 +/- 0.48 (0.13 to 2.00) and 0.24 +/- 0.21 (-0.13 to +0.75), by subjective near point, 1.60 +/- 0.55 (0.50 to 2.56) and 0.42 +/- 0.25 (0.00 to 0.75), and by defocusing, 1.46 +/- 0.53 (1.00 to -2.50) and 0.55 +/- 0.33 (0.25 to 0.87). The mean ACD decrease (mm) was 0.78 +/- 0.12 (0.49 to 1.91) and 0.16 +/- 0.09 (0.00 to 0.34) after pilocarpine 2% eyedrops, indicating a mean accommodation of 1.40 D and 0.29 D, respectively, based on Gullstrand's model eye (P =.001). The lowest fluctuation between follow-ups was with the subjective near point and the defocusing techniques followed by ACD decrease with the IOLMaster. CONCLUSIONS: Accommodation after implantation of an accommodating PC IOL should be assessed with several techniques, including subjective and objective, to differentiate true pseudophakic accommodation from pseudoaccommodation. Researchers should be aware of the different variability and consistency of measurements with each technique over time.

Accommodation, Ocular↗

PubMed2003

Evaluation of corneal flap dimensions and cut quality using the SKBM automated microkeratome.

PURPOSE: To evaluate flap dimensions and cut quality with repeated blade use of the automated Summit Krumeich-Barraquer microkeratome (SKBM [LadarVision]). SETTING: Department of Ophthalmology, University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany. METHODS: The SKBM (160 microm plate, intended flap diameter 9.0 mm) was used to perform a corneal hinged flap in 35 pig cadaver eyes. Seven blades were reused 5 times each. The flap diameter was measured by planimetry, and the thickness was assessed by ultrasonic pachymetry. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of blades and stromal beds was performed. RESULTS: With single use of the blade, the mean central flap thickness was 145 microm +/- 25 (SD). The vertical/horizontal flap diameter was 9.0 +/- 0.03 mm/8.6 +/- 0.03 mm. No thickness gradient was observed from the incision (138 +/- 31 microm) to the flap hinge (130 +/- 30 microm). If the blade was used more than 2 times, the flap was thinner at the incision (157 +/- 34 microm versus 124 +/- 20 microm; P =.003) and the hinge (143 +/- 24 microm versus 122 +/- 31 microm; P =.04), but the central thickness remained unchanged. With multiple use of the blade, SEM analysis showed increasing cut irregularity, more tissue remnants on the blade surface, and a progression in blade irregularities (up to 9.3 microm). CONCLUSIONS: Reproducible flap size and thickness can be obtained with single use of stainless steel blades in the SKBM. With multiple use, the quality of the blades and the stromal bed deteriorates and the peripheral thickness of the flaps decreases. Thus, single use of blades is recommended.

Animals↗

PubMed2003

Penetrating keratoplasty for iatrogenic keratoconus after repeat myopic laser in situ keratomileusis: histologic findings and literature review.

We report a patient with a sufficiently thick cornea (593 microm) and no topographic signs of keratoconus preoperatively who developed iatrogenic keratoconus 2 months after repeat laser in situ keratomileusis (-4.00 -1.00 x 20) performed 5 months after the primary procedure (-10.50 -1.00 x 55). After penetrating keratoplasty, macrophotography showed severe multidirectional "macrostriae" of the stromal bed. On histologic evaluation, excessive thinning of the residual stromal bed to a minimum of 75 microm in the valleys and a maximum of 200 microm at the peaks of the macrostriae were documented. The flap thickness was 225 microm in the center. The thicker-than-intended flap (160 microm) is thought to be the cause of the severe complication of the LASIK procedure.

Adult↗