Temporary Repair of Corneal Perforation Using Tutoplast((R))-Processed Pericardium Graft.

A 30-year-old woman with a history of long-standing poor vision since her previous left ocular trauma in her early childhood presented with traumatic corneal perforation in her left eye. She underwent three amniotic membrane grafts along with tissue glue application, which failed to halt the progressive corneal thinning and recurrent perforation. Penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) was planned. However, a donor cornea was not immediately available for transplantation. Therefore, a Tutoplast((R))-processed pericardium graft was placed over the edges of the corneal lesion for a temporary tectonic purpose. Three days later, PKP was performed. A pericardium graft is an effective alternative method to maintain the structural integrity of the cornea while waiting for the arrival of a donor cornea for keratoplasty in the case of severe corneal perforation. Copyright 2010, SLACK Incorporated.