The Type II Aachen-Keratoprosthesis in humans: case report of the first prolonged application

Purpose: To improve the prognosis of corneal grafts in silicone-oil filled eyes of patients with severe ocular trauma by a prolonged application of th e Type II Aachen-Keratoprosthesis (KPro). This application endeavors to imp rove post-keratoplasty prognosis by avoiding corneal endothelial dystrophy in the aphakic eye due to contact with silicone oil. Patient and Procedures: The Aachen-Keratoprosthesis' haptic was modified to allow fight contact with cells. The Type II Aachen-Keratoprosthesis was th en implanted in an 18-year-old male, with previous management of bilateral corneal rupture. Rather than utilize the device as a temporary intraoperati ve fool, we extended the device's lifespan in the eye. Main Findings: Following implantation, the patient could see hand movements up to 0.1 with best correction. After 8 weeks, vision decreased and a retr oprosthetic membrane proliferated Upon conjunctival retraction 3 months aft er the initial surgery, we excised the prosthesis and performed a re-vitrec tomy and corneal grafting. The silicone oil was removed. After eighteen pos toperative months, the graft remained clear, the retina was completely atta ched, and the vision was stable: 0.1 best corrected Conclusion: This case reports the prolonged implantation and prospect of th e Type II Aachen-Keratoprosthesis to be utilized as a permanent device to r estore vision in the near future.