Retrieval of a dropped corneal button from a vitrectomized eye

A successful retrieval of a dropped corneal button from an aphakic vitrecto mized eye during penetrating keratoplasty is reported. A 52-year-old female patient underwent penetrating keratoplasty for aphakic corneal edema in a vitrectomized eye. The donor button inadvertently dropped into the vitreous cavity and was retrieved successfully. The dropped corneal button was visu alized after focusing the operating microscope on the retina. The visualiza tion significantly improved after aspiration of the fluid from the vitrecto mized eye. The donor button was picked up by McPherson's forceps and subseq uently sutured to the recipient's cornea. Corneal surgeons need to be aware of this rare complication in aphakic vitrectomized eyes and its retrieval after accurate visualization.