Indications for orbital decompression for patients undergoing keratoprosthesis surgery.

INTRODUCTION

Optimizing the ocular surface and achieving acceptable cosmesis are important considerations in the rehabilitation of patients with keratoprosthesis (KPro). In osteo-odonto-KPro and type 1 Boston KPro surgery, it is important to ensure a healthy ocular surface to increase the chance of functional success.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The authors present 2 patients with KPros undergoing orbital decompression surgery. This series highlights a novel indication for orbital decompression surgery for patients, who are usually 1-eyed, undergoing KPro surgery. It illustrates the importance of globe position to either optimize the ocular surface or allow a cosmetic shell to be worn. To the authors' knowledge, such indications for orbital decompression have not been reported to date.

RESULTS

Two-wall and intraconal fat orbital decompression surgery achieved globe retroplacement of 6 mm and 7 mm, allowing fitting of a cosmetic shell over the osteo-odonto-KPro and reducing lagophthalmos and corneal exposure in patients 1 and 2, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Indications for orbital decompression exist in patients undergoing osteo-odonto-KPro or KPro to reduce pseudoproptosis or exposure.