Multilayer vs. monolayer amniotic membrane transplantation for deep corneal ulcer treatment.

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of multilayer amniotic transplantation (AMT) for reconstruction of corneal stroma and epithelium. Corneal ulcer (28) was a consequence of a previous infectious or neurotrophic keratitis. In the first group (17) ulcer was covered with monolayer AM, while in the other group (11) there were two or more layers of AM situated in the ulcer and the whole cornea was covered with AM sheet. Monolayer AMT was successful in 64% while the multilayer AMT success rate was 72%. AM gradually dissolved within 3-6 postoperative weeks. AM transplantation facilitates rapid healing of corneal epithelium, reduces inflammation and stimulates epithelial cell regrowth. In eyes with deep corneal ulcer multilayer technique proved to be better then monolayer procedure.