A method for true endothelial cell (Tencell) transplantation using a custom-made cannula for the treatment of endothelial cell failure.

AIM: To describe a novel technique, true endothelial cell (Tencell) transplant, for the transfer of donor endothelial cells with only a Descemet's carrier in patients with endothelial cell failure.

METHOD: Three patients treated for endothelial cell failure underwent Tencell transplantation. Two were performed to alleviate pain from bullous keratopathy, and one was performed to improve vision. Preoperative pain, vision, and corneal thickness were recorded and compared to the same parameters postoperatively.

RESULTS

At 3 months postoperatively, all patients were pain free. The visual acuity had improved in all cases, and all three cases demonstrated a reduction of central corneal thickness. In two cases it was possible to perform an endothelial cell count.

CONCLUSION

This is the first description of Tencell transplantation in living subjects.