Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty Patch for Persistent Corneal Hydrops

Purpose: To report successful management of a case of persistent keratoconus-related hydrops with a Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) patch graft. Methods: A case of corneal hydrops persisting for 7 months treated with DMEK was identified. The following information was collected: demographic data, surgical indications, clinical course, diagnostic tests, and clinical outcome. Results: A 55-year-old patient with an established diagnosis of keratoconus was followed for 7 months without improvement in his acute corneal hydrops. Because of excellent vision and central corneal clarity, the patient was treated with a 5-mm DMEK covering the Descemet membrane tear, developing cataract secondary to the procedure, but with resolution of his corneal hydrops. An uncorrected visual acuity of 20/25 was achieved after uncomplicated cataract extraction. Conclusions: DMEK, although technically challenging, can be considered for patients with persistent hydrops with preservation of corneal clarity and contour in areas of the uninvolved cornea.