[Lamellar autografting in the treatment of small corneal perforations].

BACKGROUND

The treatment of corneal perforations due to corneal ulceration is a serious challenge in countries where there are no eye banks. The author presents an original surgical procedure for treating these cases: lamellar autografting.

METHODS

The corneal transplant was taken at 12 h; size was 2 to 4 mm and thickness 2/3 of the stroma. Twelve patients were treated.

RESULTS

The results are satisfactory and the grafting successful; no complication of significant importance has been noted.

CONCLUSION

Lamellar autografting is an effective method for treating small corneal perforations. It can be temporary in case of central localization, or permanent in case of paracentral perforation.