Background: Autologous rotational keratoplasty is a therapeutic option in patients with central corneal scars. Its advantage compared to allogeneic procedures is the absence of immunologic destruction. In this retrospective analysis, long-term results are presented.
Patients: Since 1988, autologous rotational keratoplasty was performed in 19 patients. The trephine size varied between 7.0 mm and 9.0 mm. Mean follow-up was 7.1+/-4.6 years.
Results: In 16 of the patients, the graft center remained clear during the entire follow-up period. Visual acuity improved from 0.25+/-0.16 preoperatively to 0.34+/-0.27 postoperatively with spectacles and to 0.43+/-0.3 with contact lenses. The mean postoperative astigmatism was 6.41+/-3.87 dpt with irregular components in six patients.
Conclusion: Only a few postoperative graft complications were observed. Especially in patients with a markedly elevated risk for immune reactions (e.g., small infants), autologous rotational keratoplasty is a safe alternative to allogenic procedures.