Long-term outcomes of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty versus penetrating keratoplasty in Australian keratoconus patients

Abstract

PURPOSE:: The aim of this study is to compare long-term visual and surgical outcomes after performing deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) and penetrating keratoplasty (PK) for keratoconus. METHODS:: This is a retrospective review of 73 consecutive patients with keratoconus, managed with DALK or PK, between 2000 and 2010, by a single surgeon. Data were collected on baseline parameters, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in logarithm of the mean angle of resolution (logMAR), subjective refraction, graft survival, and complications. RESULTS:: Thirty-one (42.5%) eyes underwent a DALK, and 42 (57.5%) eyes underwent a PK. All PK-operated and 29 out of 31 (93.5%) DALK-operated eyes remained..