In Vivo Confocal Microscopy Reveals Corneal Reinnervation After Treatment of Neurotrophic Keratopathy With Corneal Neurotization

• DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000001315
• Publication Date: 2017-10-20T15:39:48Z
• Authors: Simon S. M. Fung; Joseph Catapano; Uri Elbaz; Ronald M. Zuker; Gregory H. Borschel; Asim Ali
• Keywords: Reinnervation

Purpose: To document the presence and location of new sensory nerve fibers after corneal neurotization using in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) 2 patients with neurotrophic keratopathy (NK). Methods: Two unilateral advanced NK received to surgically reinnervate cornea. IVCM was used identify subbasal reinnervation. In 1 patient (case 1), performed before neurotization; second 2), transplantation. Results: case 1, who had hand motion visual acuity due NK-associated perforation that necessitated cyanoacrylate gluing, preoperative identified no nerves; however, nerves were 6 months neurotization, there further episodes persistent epithelial defects. 2, whom a total absence sensation result treated basal skull meningioma, sensation, acuity, ocular surface health improved neurotization. Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty 2.5 years reestablished. demonstrated reinnervation at stromal level pattern different from normal Conclusions: Corneal restores by reinnervating layers doing so, may halt process prevent loss.