Ceramic keratoprostheses.

This paper describes a new type of corneal prosthesis made of aluminum oxide ceramic. The implant consists of a retaining plate with a 3-mm central performation to which an optical cylinder is threaded. The cylinder also made of ceramic material, has a high refractive index and 60 diopters of power. Experimental study has shown that soft tissue adheres to the surface of the material, thus preventing its extrusion and surface epithelial ingrowth. The techniques of implantation and the early results in seven patients are described.