D de Ortueta1, F Schreyger, H Baatz. 1. Eye Centre Recklinghausen, Erbruch 34-46, 45657 Recklinghausen, Germany. Diego.de.Ortueta@augenzentrum.org
Abstract
PURPOSE: The surgical treatment of band keratopathy usually consists of abrasion of the corneal epithelium followed by removal of the subepithelial calcium deposits by means of an ethylenediamine-tetraacetic acid (EDTA) solution. In order to reduce the discomfort and pain that occur after corneal abrasion, the authors developed a modified technique that avoids the abrasion of the epithelium. METHODS: In three patients (four eyes) with long-standing band keratopathy, the epithelium was detached with a 19% ethanol solution and placed gently toward the limbus, a method also used in laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK). After clearing the anterior stroma with EDTA solution, the epithelial flap is unrolled and a bandage contact lens applied. RESULTS: Postoperative pain was greatly reduced and after removal of the contact lens no pain was reported. CONCLUSIONS: This modified epithelium-sparing treatment of band keratopathy shows good results while reducing postoperative pain.
PURPOSE: The surgical treatment of band keratopathy usually consists of abrasion of the corneal epithelium followed by removal of the subepithelial calcium deposits by means of an ethylenediamine-tetraacetic acid (EDTA) solution. In order to reduce the discomfort and pain that occur after corneal abrasion, the authors developed a modified technique that avoids the abrasion of the epithelium. METHODS: In three patients (four eyes) with long-standing band keratopathy, the epithelium was detached with a 19% ethanol solution and placed gently toward the limbus, a method also used in laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK). After clearing the anterior stroma with EDTA solution, the epithelial flap is unrolled and a bandage contact lens applied. RESULTS:Postoperative pain was greatly reduced and after removal of the contact lens no pain was reported. CONCLUSIONS: This modified epithelium-sparing treatment of band keratopathy shows good results while reducing postoperative pain.