Scanning electron microscopy of artificial corneal endothelial keratoplasty implant.

PURPOSE: To characterize the surface morphology and edge profile of the artificial corneal endothelial device (EndoArt) using environmental scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

SETTING

University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom.

DESIGN

High-resolution environmental SEM study.

METHODS

EndoArt specimens underwent examination using an environmental scanning electron microscope (EVO LS15) with variable pressure chamber capabilities, enabling artifact-free examination of hydrophilic materials. Images were digitized at 2048 × 1760 dpi resolution with 200 μm scale markers. Both inner (corneal) and outer (aqueous) surfaces were evaluated at magnifications ranging from 395× to 10.46K×, focusing on surface topography and edge profile characteristics.

RESULTS

The EndoArt device exhibited a dome-shaped configuration measuring 6.5 mm in diameter with uniform 50 μm thickness. Surface analysis revealed exceptionally smooth topographical characteristics on both surfaces with minimal variation. Both inner and outer surfaces demonstrated pristine, uniform appearance without visible manufacturing marks, scratches, or polymeric irregularities. Surface roughness measurements indicated values well below thresholds associated with cellular adhesion or protein deposition. The edge profile demonstrated optimal tapered design balancing stable tissue adhesion with minimal mechanical trauma. Mirror-like surface quality extended consistently across examined areas, superior to conventional hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lenses which typically exhibit surface irregularities and textural defects.

CONCLUSIONS

The exceptional surface smoothness and optimized tapered edge profile documented support the device's barrier function mechanism, correlating with clinical outcomes showing 18% to 37% corneal thickness reductions and representing significant advances in artificial endothelial replacement technology with EndoArt.